Health chief warns of high child poverty rates in NHS Highland area

May 20, 2026 - 14:47

The director of public health for NHS Highland has raised serious concerns over the number of young children living in poverty across the region. Jennifer Davies stated that out of 12,834 children under the age of five in the area, nearly 22% are living in relative poverty. This figure, she explained, means that thousands of families are struggling to meet basic needs such as adequate nutrition, warm clothing, and stable housing.

Davies described the situation as unacceptable and warned that prolonged poverty at such a young age can have lifelong effects on physical and mental health. Children growing up in low-income households are more likely to face developmental delays, chronic illness, and educational disadvantages. She called for urgent action from both government and local agencies to address the root causes, including low wages, high housing costs, and limited access to affordable childcare.

The warning comes as part of NHS Highland's annual public health report, which also highlighted rising demand for food banks and community support services. Davies emphasized that improving child health outcomes requires a coordinated effort beyond the health sector, including better social security and investment in early years services. Without significant change, she cautioned, the region risks seeing a growing divide in health and opportunity between its youngest residents.