Poor children face an ‘Everest’ to climb

DISADVANTAGED children face an “Everest” of challenges and should not have to endure cuts in basic education and support services simply to save the Government money in the short term.

Speaking at the launch of Barnardos’ annual report yesterday, the charity’s chief executive, Fergus Finlay, outlined the stark reality facing vulnerable children and families.

He warned that continuing under-investment in vital areas such as child protection, educational supports, social welfare and family support services would “stack up the odds” against children who already have “incredibly serious” challenges to face.