Young people are happier and healthier than a decade ago but social inequalities are impacting more on poorer adolescents’ health, research has found.

CHILDHOOD in Ireland is a happier, healthier experience than in England, Scotland and Wales, according to a comprehensive survey involving more than 20,000 children.

IRISH children ranked second for physical activity in a survey of 41 countries and also scored highly for breakfast eating, having close friends and life satisfaction.