POVERTY is blighting the lives of an increasing number of young children, according to research published today, which shows that most health visitors have reported a rise in the number of families affected.

Almost nine in 10 respondents to a survey by the Institute of Health Visiting said they had seen an increase in the use of foodbanks, while half reported more families skipping meals as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.

Health visitors work with families with babies and young children under five across Britain identify health needs as early as possible.