Programme on children and young people’s living conditions and health development

Most children in Sweden grow up in safe environments and enjoy good health, but there are still disparities that affect children’s well-being and future prospects. Forte has been commissioned by the government to establish a ten-year national research programme on children and young people’s living conditions and health development, in order to expand knowledge in this area.

Security, support, and stability during childhood are vital for developing healthy habits and avoiding problems such as ill health, criminality, or unemployment later in life. To ensure that every child gets a good start in life, efforts are required from many sectors – such as child healthcare, schools, social services, dental care, and civil society. Collaboration between these actors is crucial.

In the 2024/25 Research Bill (prop. 2024/25:60), Forte was tasked by the government with establishing a ten-year national research programme focusing on children and young people’s living conditions and health development. The programme is currently in development, and a strategic agenda will be drawn up to guide future efforts.

What is the purpose of the programme?

The aim of the research programme on children and young people’s living conditions and health development is to enhance understanding of their upbringing and health. The programme will fund research that addresses key societal challenges – such as health inequalities, mental ill health, social exclusion, and the risk of young people becoming involved in criminal activity.

More knowledge is needed on what works best in preventive efforts, such as family centres and parenting support. Research is also required on how to protect young people from exclusion, isolation, and long-term unemployment, as well as on how civil society and the public sector can work together. Another important issue is the impact of digital media and screen time on children’s health – an area that also calls for more research and insight.