Reaching vulnerable children through innovative health promotion and preventive policies

Abstract Background Children and adolescents represent our future. Yet the health of children and adolescents is at a critical juncture. Many children are born into circumstances that render them vulnerable to poorer lifelong health, and an alarming share are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. These children are twice as likely to have unmet medical needs compared to those from more affluent families. Methods We used a structured tool to collect detailed information on which outreach efforts five selected European countries (Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal and the United Kingdom (England)) have implemented to boost the uptake of available prevention and promotion services for vulnerable children and adolescents. Results Countries are implementing diverse measures to improve access to and utilization of health promotion and preventive services. These initiatives are designed to benefit both the general population and specific groups that are particularly vulnerable. The approaches differ; some are designed to support parents or families of children, while others are directly aimed at children and adolescents. Countries utilize a mix of measures to effectively engage with their target audiences. These include action programmes, digital services, awareness campaigns, social media engagement, mobile units and school-based health services. Conclusions By prioritizing three interconnected strategies, including implementing targeted outreach initiatives, policy-makers and stakeholders can work towards closing the gap in health disparities and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to achieve optimal health, development and well-being.