ROGER WILLIAMS MP BACKS ACTION FOR CHILDREN'S CALL FOR GREATER SUPPORT FOR 6-13 YEAR OLDS

9.58.58am GMT Wed 11th Feb 2009

Roger Williams, MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, has taken critical steps towards supporting vulnerable children by signing Early Day Motion 442, which is gathering cross-party support in the House of Commons for Action for Children's latest campaign. The charity is calling for greater support for six to 13 year olds, whose needs are currently being overlooked, despite this being a recognised turning point in their lives.

In January, the charity launched Stuck in the middle (1), a report that warns six to 13 year old children are struggling with a unique set of problems as they make the transition towards adolescence, yet these are going unsupported. A UK wide survey from the charity also exposed 60% of adults and over 40% of parents with children aged six to 13 (2) to be unaware that this age is a crucial turning point.

The ages of six to 13 are identified in the report as a time when children become more independent, spend less time with parents, experience physical changes and develop new relationships. With these changes can come a host of problems that can hit children hard. By ignoring them, the charity warns we risk profound effects such as crime, drug and alcohol dependency, mental health issues or behavioural problems that could stay with children into adulthood.

Roger Williams MP says: "Action for Children's latest campaign sends us an urgent warning: put more support must be put in place for six to 13 year olds to ensure that they grow up with the emotional resilience to succeed in life. We owe every child this chance, and it's imperative that we give them this."

Clare Tickell, Chief Executive of Action for Children, says: "We are grateful to Mr Williams, for showing his support for our campaign. This indicates that he shares our recognition that it's critical to put support in place for children at this time if they are to avoid darker days as adults, and achieve their full potential in life."

Following the report Action for Children wants to see the following changes:

A cross-party 21-year vision for children and young people established in each of the four nations

Agencies and professionals working with children and families must do more to recognise and safeguard the vital role of continuity, commitment and relationships built on trust in children's lives. Therefore, all children need at least one trusted adult who is there for them for as long as it takes, especially at times of transition

Governments and media across the UK must begin a responsible debate on the way our young people are perceived and highlight young people's contribution to communities.

Notes:

Stuck in the Middle: the importance of supporting six to 13 year olds. To view a pdf of the report please visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk

ICM interviewed a random sample of 2,212 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 17th to 21st Dec 2008. Surveys were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Further information at www.icmresearch.co.uk