In Finland they are brilliant at ensuring no young person falls behind. From the day a child is born they are visited by health workers who assess their well-being and developmental. The health workers work with psychologists and speech therapists and aim to identify any problems at a very early stage.

In this quote, Liz Kendall highlights the comprehensive and proactive approach Finland takes toward ensuring that no young person is left behind in terms of health and development. She points out that from the moment a child is born, health workers are involved in assessing their well-being and development. This early intervention approach is key to identifying any potential issues, whether physical, psychological, or developmental, at the earliest possible stage, allowing for timely support and intervention.

Kendall emphasizes the collaborative nature of Finland’s approach, where health workers work alongside psychologists and speech therapists. This multi-disciplinary team helps to provide a well-rounded assessment of a child's development, ensuring that any challenges are identified and addressed swiftly. This early and holistic approach to child health is designed to prevent problems from escalating and to ensure that children have the best start in life, regardless of background or circumstances.

The origin of this quote comes from Kendall's focus on social care and healthcare policies, particularly in the context of child development and early intervention. As a British politician, Kendall has often pointed to the success of systems like Finland's as examples of best practices that can be adopted in other countries. Her statement reflects her belief in the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care in ensuring equal opportunities for all children.

Kendall’s quote underscores the idea that a well-coordinated system of healthcare and developmental support can prevent future social and health disparities. By investing in early health assessments and developmental support, countries can help ensure that all children have the resources and opportunities to thrive, laying a strong foundation for their future well-being.