Obese Children: Numbers in England Increase During Pandemic

Statistics show the number of obese children in England increased during the Covid pandemic.

When comparing 2019-20 with 2020-21, there was a rise in the number of obese kids at the start of primary school from 10% to 14%.

When looking at the final year of primary school (year six), the number rose from 21% to over 25%. Factor in those classified as overweight, 28% were overweight in reception year groups and 41% in year six.

This, in comparison to other recent years, is a marked jump up and highlights the impact of the lockdowns on children’s health.

It is part of the driving factors behind the recent announcement by the NHS that it is to set up 15 clinics for severely obese children.

The pilot scheme will give over 1,000 children aged 2-18 specialist treatment to support weight loss. This will include diet plans, mental health treatment and coaching.

Amanda Pritchard, Chief Executive of NHS England, said; “The pandemic has shone a harsh light on obesity – with many vulnerable young people struggling with weight gain during the pandemic.

“Left unchecked, obesity can have other very serious consequences, ranging from diabetes to cancer.”

Usually, every schoolchild takes part in the weighing and measuring scheme. However, this year it was only a sample due to Covid lockdowns preventing schools from being open.