A recent report by Unicef UK reveals alarming health disparities among children in England's most deprived areas, highlighting increased visits to A&E, higher rates of obesity, and significant dental health issues.

Currently, around 1.2 million children under five, or 35% of this age group in England, live in poverty, with the UK experiencing a faster rise in child poverty rates than any other OECD or EU country.

The report indicates that children in deprived areas experience an average of 1,020 A&E visits per 1,000, reflecting a 55% increase compared to their more affluent peers.

Obesity rates among reception-age children are particularly concerning, with 24% classified as overweight or obese in deprived areas, compared to just 12.9% in affluent regions.

Dental health is another critical issue, as 29% of children in deprived areas suffer from untreated tooth decay, nearly double the 15% rate in more affluent areas, and they are three times more likely to have teeth removed due to decay.

The report, published on June 5, 2025, analyzed all local authorities in England, finding that only four out of 151 are currently meeting the government's target for early years development.

Dr. Philip Goodwin, chief executive of Unicef UK, has stressed the urgent need for government action to prevent further entrenchment of inequality and child poverty.

The report calls on the UK Government to lift its two-child benefit cap, emphasizing that a child's early environment significantly impacts their health and development.

This two-child limit on welfare payments, introduced in 2015, has sparked criticism from various political figures, including Sir Keir Starmer, and remains a focal point in debates about child poverty.

In response to these issues, a petition advocating for investments in early childhood services, supported by over 105,000 signatures, was presented to the Prime Minister on June 6, 2025.

Unicef UK recommends sustainable funding for Family Hubs, increased recruitment of health visitors, and equal access to government-funded childcare for all children aged two or older.

The report also highlights that the five most deprived local authorities, including Blackpool and Liverpool, rank in the lowest 20% for five out of six child wellbeing measures.