Charities urge voters to put children on political agenda

Two of the largest children’s charities in Northern Ireland have joined forces to urge voters to push Assembly candidates into improving the welfare of children.

Barnardo’s and NSPCC said that while they were happy with many of the parties' manifestos for next week's elections, there was still a great deal to be done.

“Much good work was carried out by our local politicians during devolution, not least the creation of a Children’s Commissioner, the Children’s Fund and the commitment to a development of a 10 year Children’s Strategy," Ian Elliott, Director NSPCC Northern Ireland said.

"Children only have one chance at childhood and we need to act quickly and decisively. We are pleased to note that many of political parties in their manifestoes have begun to recognise the need for detailed policy and legislation to improve outcomes for very vulnerable children.”

Both parties have written to all Assembly candidates with a list of key policies of which they are seeking support and we hope that candidates will take time to consider these in detail.

The letter applauded efforts already being made by local parties but said there was still "much to be done to create a society that has the best interests and welfare of children at its heart".

(MB)