Paediatricians warn UK is raising 'unhealthiest generation in decades'

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has published its latest State of Child Health report, marking nearly a decade since the inaugural edition. The comprehensive analysis reveals a troubling trajectory for children's health and wellbeing across the United Kingdom, with key indicators showing either marked decline or complete stagnation over the past ten years. Paediatricians warn that the UK is currently raising one of the unhealthiest generations in decades, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of current public health policies and early intervention strategies. The findings highlight the urgent need for cross-government action to address the social determinants of health, including poverty, housing, and equitable access to health services, which disproportionately affect outcomes for children and young people. For local government leaders, these findings underscore the critical importance of protecting early years services, health visiting programmes, and family support provision that help lay the foundations for lifelong health. The report serves as a stark reminder that investment in children's health is essential not only for individual wellbeing but also for reducing future pressures on health and social care systems.