The Childhood Lottery: How Where You Grow Up Shapes Childhood Outcomes

A new report from the Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, highlights significant inequalities in children’s experiences and outcomes across England. Drawing on 162 measures covering family life, education, health, community safety and social care, the report finds that a child’s postcode can have a major influence on their opportunities, wellbeing and future prospects.

The report reveals substantial variation between local areas. Children growing up in some parts of the country are more likely to experience poorer educational outcomes, longer waits for mental health support, reduced access to youth services, higher levels of deprivation and greater concerns about safety. While these challenges are often linked to poverty, the report shows that outcomes are not determined by deprivation alone, with some areas achieving far better results for children than others despite similar socioeconomic circumstances.

The analysis identifies the local authorities where children face the greatest challenges and argues that these disparities should be a central consideration as powers and funding are devolved to regional and local government. The Commissioner calls for children’s needs to be placed at the heart of devolution arrangements, including the introduction of a ‘Children’s Test’ for local decision-making, the creation of a national Children’s Emergency Fund, and stronger regional leadership and accountability for improving outcomes.

The report concludes that every child, regardless of where they live, should have access to high-quality services, opportunities and support. It urges national, regional and local leaders to work together to reduce geographical inequalities and ensure all children can thrive.