Children with special health needs are more likely to come from poorer neighbourhoods

Policymakers must ensure robust resources are in place where they are needed most. (Shutterstock)

Children’s health depends a great deal on where they live. Those who spend their early years in deprived neighbourhoods — measured using a combination of variables, including the percentage of residents with low income or education — are much more likely to have special health needs.

This can set them up for a lifetime of issues, such as being less likely to meet educational expectations in later grades and long-term mental and physical health problems.