PRESS RELEASE — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 19 October 2026

Following the publication of the Children's Commissioner's landmark report, The Childhood Lottery, and growing concerns over children's mental health, education, healthcare and future employment opportunities, the Workers of England Union is calling for urgent action by the British government.

The Postcode Lottery in Youth Services

The Children's Commissioner's report reveals that four English local authorities—Slough, Herefordshire, Halton and Warrington—recorded zero spending on youth services per teenager, compared with £421 per teenager in Camden.

The Workers of England Union believes these extraordinary differences demand urgent investigation. Every young person, regardless of where they live, should have access to meaningful youth services, support and opportunities.

Demand for Fair Investment and an English Government

Stephen Morris, General Secretary of the Workers of England Union, said:

“How can we be living in 2026 and still discussing children being failed by education, mental health services and even basic hospital care? These are the foundations of a civilised society, not luxuries that families should have to fight for.

“Working people pay their taxes and expect the British government to get the fundamentals right. Instead, we see another generation of children being denied opportunities that should be available to everyone.

“We do not need another decade of reports, reviews and political promises. We need proper investment, responsible spending, accountability and a government prepared to put England's children at the heart of its priorities. It is clear that workers across England need their own government so that resources can be properly coordinated across England. It is obvious that successive British Governments keep failing England’s children.

“Our children are not simply another statistic or another budget commitment. They are the next generation of workers, parents, skilled professionals and community leaders. They are England's future, and they are being failed.”

Media Enquiries and Availability

Stephen Morris is available for media interviews, commentary and further discussions on the findings of the report, the impact on working families and the urgent need to improve opportunities for children and young people across England.

Media enquiries:
Workers of England Union
Website: www.workersofengland.co.uk
Interviews with Stephen Morris, General Secretary, available on request.