Early childhood inequalities

Abstract

Abstract While there is widespread agreement in societies like the UK that every child has the right to a secure childhood and the opportunity to develop to their full potential, this does not match with reality for many of the 4 million children under the age of 5 years currently living in the UK. This article draws on existing evidence and presents new UK-focused analysis on the nature, magnitude, evolution and long-term implications of early childhood inequalities. Reflecting on this evidence, the article provides a critical appraisal of how policy aimed at supporting very young children and their families has fared in terms of reducing inequality. Reflecting on this evidence, the article provides a critical appraisal of how policy aimed at supporting very young children and their families has fared in terms of reducing inequality. The evidence presented in the article gives a motivating call to policy to support the complex needs of parents of infants and young children, alongside addressing the structural inequalities that can have devastating long-term consequences for children.