Public health officials have highlighted a significant concern regarding child poverty in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The 2025 Director of Public Health report reveals that approximately 27,000 individuals under the age of 19 are living in “relative poverty” in the region. This statistic indicates that about one in five children, or 22.9%, in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are facing poverty. This figure is notably above the average for England, which stands at 21.9%.
Dr. Eunan O’Neill, the director of public health for Cornwall, stated that poverty impacts “every aspect of a child’s life” and labeled the current situation as a crisis that requires urgent attention. The report defines poverty as the inability to meet basic needs such as adequate housing, food security, or access to heating, raising the question of what can be done to address these issues effectively.
The findings prompted calls for action, including the establishment of a multi-agency taskforce dedicated to tackling child poverty. Dr. O’Neill expressed that poverty is not a predetermined condition and is influenced by policy and systemic choices. He emphasized that these circumstances can be altered, thus inviting dialogue on potential solutions.
Hilary Frank, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for children, families, and schools, referred to the prevalence of child poverty as an “uncomfortable truth.” She highlighted the dire implications for affected children, such as living without basic necessities and facing food insecurity. Thalia Marrington, cabinet member for community safety and public health, urged community members to engage with the report and consider ways to contribute to improving the lives of children and young people in the area.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly4vvg1097o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss