Growing up

In the past fifty years, changes in society have brought unprecedented opportunities to our young people, but also significant new challenges.  Arguably, the demands and expectations placed on children and young people have never been greater and it is estimated that 1 in 10 in the UK experience mental health problems.[1]  Going forward, climate, technological and social change are set to transform the world today’s young people will inherit.

Herefordshire is home to around 33,800 young people aged under 18.  Generally, Herefordshire is a good place to grow up:  children here are happy and generally get a good education.  However, this does not necessarily translate into social mobility. 

Our children and young people are less likely to experience crime and gang culture than their counterparts in some urban areas, but growing up in one of England’s most rural counties presents issues of its own, including around access to services.  In addition, there is significant and persistent inequality and while, overall, child poverty is lower in Herefordshire than nationally, it is much higher in some areas of the county than others.

In addition, despite relatively abundant active leisure opportunities, children in Herefordshire are no less likely to be overweight or obese than their peers in England as a whole.  The oral health of children in Herefordshire is also consistently poor compared to the rest of England.

The challenge for Herefordshire Council and partner organisations is to maximise the potential of our children and young people and give them all the best start in life.

[1] Mental health, NHS England.