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The call for a Cabinet Minister
The Children First Alliance flagship policy is the call for a Cabinet Minister for Children and Young People. This, of course, is a first step only. What that Cabinet Minister actually does will be the key to reversing negative trends and unlocking the potential of our children and young people.
The current junior Ministerial post in the Department for Education cannot drive with the requisite authority an integrated cross-Departmental response to the challenges.This strong voice for children at Cabinet level would work in the same way that the interests of women are served by the current Cabinet Minister for Women and Equalities. Similarly, a Minister for Loneliness at Cabinet level has been in post since July 2018.
Such a senior position would:
- Champion the importance of our children and young people
- Improve their physical and mental health
- Push equality and inclusiveness
- Inspire the potential of the next generations
- Press policy-makers to put children and young people at the heart of all decision-making
Why is a Cabinet Minister for Children & Young People needed?
As Ofsted Head, Amanda Spielman categorises, children are either 'born lucky' or face 'disadvantage right from the start' unable to follow what's actually going on. Unable to keep up with their classmates. Unable to reach their full potential.
They are menaced by five 21st century 'evils':
- obesity and physical inactivity
- adverse childhood experiences
- rising mental health issues
- rising mental health issues
- dominance of social media and screen time influence
- socioeconomic disadvantage and cultural/ethnic divide
We look forward to working with fellow organisations to improve the welfare of children & young people in our great country.
The health and well-being of our children and young people is being challenged as never before. Without urgent action, our children will become the least healthy adult population in living memory. We need somebody at the highest level of Government to take responsibility and drive improvements.
Please sign our petition to call for a Cabinet Minister to take personal responsibility for improving the life chances of our children and young people.
Over 150 organisations, professionals, academics and politicians have already signed up to support the campaign. Will you join them in supporting this call?
