Scotland recorded the UK’s highest child mortality rate in 2024, prompting warnings that weaknesses in healthcare and persistent inequality could produce one of the unhealthiest generations in decades. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said disadvantage in early childhood was closely associated with higher mortality and poorer long-term outcomes.

There were 10.1 deaths per 100,000 children aged one to 15 in Scotland, compared with 8.5 in England, 10 in Northern Ireland and 6.4 in Wales. The report also highlighted tooth decay among 27% of five-year-olds, higher rates of developmental concerns and tooth decay in deprived areas, falling short vaccination uptake, increased cannabis use among teenagers, and 4,791 young people waiting for mental health treatment in March 2026.