1.1 Identify the factors that impact on outcomes and life chances for children and young people

This guide will help you answer 1.1 Identify the factors that impact on outcomes and life chances for children and young people.

Children and young people develop in many different ways. Their physical health, mental wellbeing, education and social skills can be shaped by many factors. These factors can be personal to the child or linked to their environment. Outcomes include their achievements, health, emotional resilience and the opportunities they have later in life. Life chances refer to the likelihood of positive experiences such as good qualifications, secure employment, positive relationships and good health in adulthood.

Workers supporting children and young people need to recognise these factors. By identifying them early, they can help reduce risks and build strengths.

Health Factors

A child’s health can have a major influence on their outcomes. Poor health can affect attendance at school, confidence and ability to take part in activities.

Common health-related factors include:

• Chronic illnesses such as asthma or diabetes that can limit participation in physical activity
• Disabilities or special educational needs that require additional support
• Low birth weight, which can be linked with developmental delays
• Nutritional issues, such as poor diet or obesity
• Mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression

Good health can support better attendance at school, more social interaction and improved concentration. When health is poor, children may face barriers in learning and socialising. Support from health professionals and adapted learning approaches can reduce these barriers.

Socio-Economic Factors

The economic status of a family influences the resources available to the child. Children in low-income households may have fewer opportunities in education and leisure.

How socio-economic factors impact outcomes:

• Limited access to technology or educational materials can affect learning progress
• Poor housing conditions can lead to health problems like asthma or frequent illness
• Financial stress in the family may create tension, affecting emotional wellbeing
• Lack of access to safe play areas can limit physical and social development

Families who have stable income and safe housing can usually offer more opportunities. Those with financial challenges may still provide strong emotional support, but they might struggle with the cost of books, trips or sports activities.

Family Environment

The way a family functions has a strong influence on a child’s life chances. Positive family relationships can help children feel safe, valued and supported.

Factors within the family environment include:

• Stability of home life, such as consistent routines and care
• Positive parenting styles that encourage learning and responsibility
• Absence or presence of domestic abuse, which can deeply harm emotional security
• Parental involvement in education, such as helping with homework and attending school meetings
• Quality of relationships between adults and children in the household

A family that offers warmth, respect and interest in the child’s life helps build resilience. Conflict, neglect or lack of attention can damage confidence and motivation.

Education

Access to quality education shapes both achievement and future opportunities. Children who develop strong literacy and numeracy skills are more likely to progress into further learning or employment.

Factors affecting educational outcomes include:

• Quality of teaching and school resources
• Attendance rates and punctuality
• Support for individual learning needs
• Opportunities for creative and practical learning
• Encouragement of participation in school activities and decision-making

When children miss out on education or receive limited support, they may fall behind their peers. Extra help from teaching assistants, tutors or mentoring programmes can boost achievement and confidence.

Social and Peer Relationships

Friendships and social networks help children develop communication and empathy. Positive peer relationships can protect against feelings of isolation.

Ways peer relationships can impact life chances:

• Supportive friendships encourage self-esteem and belonging
• Peer pressure can lead to risky behaviours, such as experimenting with substances
• Bullying can harm mental health and school engagement
• Inclusive environments promote cooperation and respect

Children who learn to manage conflicts and build healthy friendships often carry these skills into adult relationships. Those who are isolated or bullied may need extra emotional and social support.

Community and Neighbourhood

The wider community influences opportunities available for children and young people. Safe, supportive communities help children thrive.

Community-related factors include:

• Availability of youth centres, parks and sports facilities
• Local crime rates and safety concerns
• Access to libraries, cultural events and community groups
• Support networks like mentoring schemes or volunteer programmes
• Quality of public transport and local services

When communities lack resources or are unsafe, families may restrict independent play or travel for their children. This can limit social skills and confidence. Strong community links can offer positive role models and a sense of belonging.

Cultural and Religious Influences

Cultural and religious backgrounds affect values, traditions and expectations. These influences can guide children’s sense of identity and belonging.

Impact on life chances:

• Cultural expectations about education or career choice can shape ambitions
• Religious communities may offer support networks and moral guidance
• Understanding and respecting cultural differences promotes inclusion
• Restrictions based on cultural beliefs can limit certain opportunities

Supporting the child’s cultural identity can help them feel confident and respected. Workers should avoid stereotypes and base actions on the needs and preferences of the individual child.

Personal Traits and Resilience

Children’s personality and coping skills influence how they respond to challenges. Resilience is the ability to recover and adapt after difficulties.

Factors linked to resilience and personal traits:

• Positive self-image from encouragement and praise
• Problem-solving and communication skills built through learning and play
• Willingness to try new tasks and learn from mistakes
• Capacity to manage emotions like anger or fear
• Supportive role models in family or community

Strong resilience improves life chances by helping children face setbacks without losing hope. Without support, repeated challenges can lower self-esteem and motivation.

Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are stressful events happening before the age of 18. These can include abuse, neglect, household substance misuse or parental separation.

Effects on outcomes:

• Higher risk of emotional and behavioural problems
• Challenges in forming healthy relationships
• Potential impact on school performance
• Increased likelihood of health issues in adulthood

Early intervention programmes, safe environments and steady relationships can help reduce the impact of ACEs. Building trust and providing safe spaces can lead to improved confidence and engagement.

Role of Professionals in Identifying Factors

Workers in the children and young people’s workforce can spot early signs of challenges. They might notice changes in attendance, mood or health.

Effective professional practice involves:

• Observing behaviour and listening to what children say
• Communicating with parents and carers
• Keeping accurate and up-to-date records
• Sharing concerns with relevant agencies following safeguarding procedures
• Offering practical support and encouragement when needed

When professionals act quickly, they can often prevent small problems becoming long-term barriers.

Government Policies and Support Services

Government policies can influence life chances through funding, legislation and programme access. Support services include health, social care, education and youth work.

Examples include:

• Free school meals for families with low income
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision
• Child protection laws and safeguarding procedures
• Health screening and vaccination programmes
• Career guidance and apprenticeship opportunities

These services aim to create fairer opportunities. Workers should understand what is available locally and help families access it.

Early Years and Development

Development in the early years is particularly important for long-term outcomes. Skills learned before school, such as language and social interaction, prepare children for formal learning.

Factors affecting early development:

• Access to early years education or childcare
• Quality of attachment between child and caregiver
• Opportunities for play and exploration
• Nutritional health and physical activity
• Exposure to reading and storytelling

Gaps in early development can be harder to close later. Early support often leads to better school readiness and improved confidence.

Environmental Factors

The physical environment where a child lives can affect health, mood and safety.

Environmental influences include:

• Clean air and low pollution levels
• Access to outdoor play spaces
• Safe housing without hazards like damp or unsafe stairs
• Availability of green spaces for exercise and play

Environments that promote safety and activity encourage healthy habits. Poor environments may cause stress or limit learning opportunities.

Digital Access and Technology

Technology is part of most children’s lives. Access to devices and the internet can open opportunities for learning and communication.

How digital access impacts life chances:

• Children with access to safe online resources can learn new skills
• Lack of technology in the home can make homework or research difficult
• Risks from unsafe content or online bullying
• Opportunities for creativity and community involvement online

Workers should promote safe and balanced use, supporting families to manage screen time and online risks.

Final Thoughts

Recognising the wide range of factors that influence children and young people’s outcomes and life chances is key to providing effective support. Health, family environment, education, community and even technology can all play a role in shaping a young person’s future. Each child experiences these factors differently, and they may have strengths in one area while facing challenges in another.

By working closely with families, schools, community organisations and health professionals, those in the children and young people’s workforce can help to address barriers and nurture positive influences. Awareness, early action and consistent encouragement can make a lasting difference for each child’s present wellbeing and future opportunities.