Children in Richmond upon Thames are some of the happiest in UK

Young people living in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames are benefiting from levels of teenage pregnancy and obesity that fall well below the national average. New figures show that children and young adults in the borough are among the healthiest and safest in the UK.

The Annual Report of the Richmond upon Thames Local Safeguarding Children Board shows that obesity levels within borough children is much lower than seen throughout the rest of the UK. Only six per cent of youngsters aged four to five and 12.3 per cent of those aged ten to 11 are classed as overweight in the borough.

It has been suggested that children in Richmond upon Thames have lower rates of obesity and are generally healthier due to the good start they are given in life. Most mothers in the borough breastfeed their babies, which helps to improve their immune system and general well-being. Some 90 percent of women breastfeed in the borough, compared to 74 per cent Nationwide.

The borough has also worked hard to help children in schools understand the possible dangers related to social networking, helping them to be aware of their own safety. They are taught how to deal with situations that may arise as a result of using the internet and social networking sites.

Councillor Christine Percival, Richmond Council cabinet member for Health and Children's Services, said: “We take the safeguarding and well-being of children extremely seriously in Richmond and so we are of course delighted by these latest figures which show our children and young people are among the safest and healthiest in the country. 

"This report shows that our children are receiving the very best start in life. However, we will not become complacent. There is still much to do to improve and protect children’s health - particularly through prevention efforts that tackle some of the key risks that impact on a child’s healthy development, including parental mental health and use of drugs and alcohol.”

Published 10th October, 2013

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