Identify And Explain The Impact Of Poverty On Children And Young People

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Poverty is a common theme when it comes to young people that experience other forms of harm and neglect, impacting their opportunities and life chances in numerous ways. A young person’s health and wellbeing can be seriously affected by poverty, as a lack of a balanced diet or access to nutritious food can lead to deficiencies, stunting growth, and a lowered immune system. Poor living conditions, such as sleeping in a bedroom where mould is present, can exacerbate these issues. Prolonged exposure to mould can lead to disrupted sleep, respiratory issues, allergic reactions, skin irritations, headaches and fatigue. Children and young people experiencing poverty are more likely to also experience anxiety, depression, and behavioural problems. The stress of poverty and unstable living environments can take a significant toll on their mental well-being. …show more content…
A lack of nutritious food can hinder a child's cognitive development, making it difficult to concentrate in lessons and do well in school. Limited access to educational resources further disadvantages them. Children and young people from low-income families often miss out on extracurricular activities or school trips due to costs. This can affect their social development skills over time and create a sense of exclusion. A young person’s housing situation can affect their life opportunities, as poverty-stricken areas often have higher crime rates and limited access to positive role models. This can increase the chance of young people engaging in negative or anti-social behaviours. Frequent moves due to unstable housing can also disrupt a young person’s education, social life, and sense of