John Kyle: The poorest children are suffering the most and we badly need to help facilitate their return to school

Children from disadvantaged backgrounds lose ground academically over school holidays.

We are in a situation where children are away from school for six months or possibly longer.

That will leave a huge gap in their education and for those from the most disadvantaged backgrounds they may never be able to regain the ground lost.

It could have lifelong consequences with implications for academic qualifications, employment and life opportunities and future mental health.

For the poorest families, in small homes without gardens, the stress can impact parents’ mental health.

We know there has been an increase in domestic violence, online gambling and alcohol consumption.

This inevitably impacts the children.

For vulnerable children the risks in school from Covid-19 are minimal compared to those which can arise from prolonged absence.

Schools are safe places. Since the level of community spread is now extremely low we should look at facilitating the urgent return to school of children in receipt of free school meals.

In that way, with class rooms only partially filled social distancing is manageable.

Teachers at risk could be substituted from the teachers who have been subbing in schools but have no permanent post.

Whatever happens in the next few months, these children will need additional support in the next school year.

I am very impressed with the determination on the part of Steve Chalke and the Oasis academy chain in England to reopen their schools in the light of the risks faced by children from more disadvantaged backgrounds.

In Northern Ireland we could learn from his example.

Dr John Kyle, PUP councillor, retired GP, Belfast BT5