The report from the Bertelsmann Foundation compiled using data from the OECD placed the UK 15th out of 31 wealthy countries after calculating 'fairness;'- 'social justice'. The Scandanavian countries were judged, 'in a league of their own'. The UK child poverty rate was the main driver of our position along with the fact that we spend only 0.28% of national income on early childhood education ( ref:cuts in Sure Start) but an inequitable educational system and high youth unemployment are also factors. Big countries fare worse overall (USA are 27th) mainly because of their more complex socities. Iceland come top (small population and an equitable society).
Extra content
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/nov/22/child-poverty-commission-milton-keynes?INTCMP=SRCH
This link is an interesting article on the need for a pragmatic look at what really is needed to lift children out of poverty?
David Palmer
20:44 on 24 November 2011
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