Clean air, healthy futures

Utilising young people’s voices to guide clinical conversations and advocacy

Abstract

Background

Air pollution is a critical issue affecting both health and the environment. Both the UN and the Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health (RCPCH) assert that access to clean air is a basic human right, but it remains a central driver of health inequalities. Despite the myriad health risks, children and families often lack awareness of the health effects and strategies to address them. Paediatricians have a duty to close this knowledge gap. The RCPCH is well placed to harness young people’s voices in addressing this global challenge. Our work offers practical solutions on how clinicians can engage children and young people (CYP) to build knowledge and empower them through actionable advice.

Methods

A mixed methods approach with workshops, surveys and group discussions engaged 954 CYP across the UK in a variety of settings including mainstream and special educational needs schools, hospitals, and community spaces. Qualitative data was analysed thematically to explore CYP perceptions of air quality and awareness of health consequences. Quantitative insights from structured questionnaires complement these findings.

Results

82% of CYP believed there was a connection between air pollution and health problems, identifying respiratory issues as the primary impact. However, they demonstrated limited understanding of how to mitigate risks. 58% had learnt about air quality in schools, but only a minority had discussed air quality with healthcare professionals, despite viewing them as trusted sources of advice. 77% said that it was important for CYP views on improving air quality to be listened to by people in power.

Conclusions

 The voices of young people offer a unique and vital contribution. Their desire for education and advocacy for clean air present a timmely opportunity for clinicians and policymakers to rethink how air pollution is addressed in clinical practice. Incorporating young people’s voices is crucial, and clinicians have a central role to play in translating concerns into practical action. The RCPCH has co-created resources for workforce education, as well as policy documents promoting local and global advocacy. Clinicians should be equipped to engage patients and families in conversations around air pollution as part of routine consultations. As one young person poignantly expressed, “Clean air is not a privilege, it’s a right we all deserve for our health and our future.”