Barnardo’s Cymru is calling on every candidate standing in the upcoming Senedd election to commit to championing policies that make childhoods safer, healthier, happier, and more hopeful.
With more than 31% of children in Wales living in poverty, the 2026 Senedd election comes at a pivotal time for babies, children, and young people in Wales, providing a crucial opportunity to tackle deep-rooted inequalities. Welsh children from low-affluence families have significantly lower life satisfaction, with those struggling financially more likely to experience poor mental health, school absence, bullying, and social exclusion.
Evidence from Public Health Wales shows that rates of diagnosable mental health conditions among children and young people in Wales have roughly doubled over the past two decades, with emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depression particularly prominent.
“A lot of young people have issues with mental health, so people think it’s a trend or something,” said 19-year-old Miles, from Newport. “But is it really surprising when things just keep getting harder and more expensive?”
“As a young person working full time, and barely managing to afford my bills, I don’t think there’s enough help available,” echoed 19-year-old Sumaiya, from Swansea. “Where is the support for the young people who are working but still can’t afford to live?”
Barnardo’s Cymru, which provides support for children, young people and families across Wales, is urging candidates who seek to represent Welsh communities to stand up for the rights and well-being of all children. Electoral candidates can now visit www.barnardos.org.uk/cymru-pledge to show their support.
The charity has also provided a manifesto for Wales, developed in consultation with young people, which outlines key priorities for improving the lives of Welsh youth. This includes commitments to:
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End child poverty in Wales.
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Support families to give children the best possible life chances.
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Protect children from harm and improve their safety.
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Transform mental health support and wellbeing services.
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Strengthen care and opportunities for children in or leaving care.
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Ensure all unaccompanied children receive necessary support and protection.
Sarah Crawley, Director of Barnardo’s Cymru, said: “Babies, children, young people and their families in Wales are ambitious for their future, and they want a government that matches that. They deserve to see a future Welsh Government that feels as passionately about their lives and opportunities as they do, and we look forward to seeing how every candidate standing in this election will make that case.”