A stark new opinion poll has delivered a devastating verdict on the government's record on children, with an overwhelming majority of the British public believing ministers are failing the younger generation.
The survey, commissioned by former Children's Commissioner for England Anne Longfield, found that a mere 2% of voters think the government has a good long-term plan for children. This damning figure cuts across political lines, indicating a deep-seated national concern.
A Nation Losing Faith
The findings paint a picture of a nation deeply pessimistic about the prospects for its youth. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of those polled believe the government does not understand the challenges facing children and families today. Furthermore, 72% agree that children's needs have been deprioritised in favour of other political issues.
'This poll is a wake-up call which reveals the public's crushing disappointment in the government's neglect of children,' said Professor Anne Longfield. 'It is a damning indictment of those in power that only 2% of the public think the government has a good plan for children's futures.'
The Cost-of-Living Crisis Bites
The research highlights how the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is exacerbating existing problems. A significant 81% of the public are worried about rising levels of child poverty, while 71% expressed concern about the growing mental health crisis among young people.
These concerns are not abstract. They reflect the daily realities for families struggling with soaring food prices, energy bills, and a lack of accessible support services.
A Call for a New Cross-Government Strategy
In response to these alarming findings, a new coalition, led by Professor Longfield's Centre for Young Lives, is demanding urgent action. The coalition is calling for the establishment of a dedicated cabinet-level minister for children and the implementation of a comprehensive, cross-government strategy.
Shadow Education Secretary Peter Kyle MP backed the calls, stating, 'This important research confirms that the public has no confidence that the government is on the side of young people or their families.' He accused the government of being 'absent' on the issues that matter most for children's futures.
With a general election on the horizon, the poll sends a clear message: the party that can present a credible, ambitious plan for supporting the next generation may well win the trust of the British public.
