Thread by @soniasodha

Coronavirus is the biggest threat to child wellbeing in a generation, yet the government appears to have no plan.

Here’s our 8 point plan at the Observer for protecting children and young people from the worst impacts of the pandemic. (1/x)

theguardian.com/commentisfree/…

1. Government block purchase of nursery places esp in deprived areas to prevent nursery closures

2. Proper plan to get all children back to school full time in September including restoration of funding to 2010 levels

3. A free programme of structured activities over the summer for all children, run by theatre groups, sports centres, museums and galleries and youth groups

4. A child mental health counsellor for every school

5. Increased funding for services for vulnerable children and their families

6. A paid civic service service scheme that guarantees all 18-25 year olds a job for 6 months working in schools, hospitals and on environmental projects, alongside coaching and development

7. A cut in university tuition fees next year

8. A long term commitment to equal funding for education and training for all 18 year olds, whether or not they go to university

The Nightingale hospitals were built in weeks; hundreds of billions have been spent while the economy has been locked down: children deserve the same levels of energy, creativity, focus and investment.