The absence of a stable, protective family exposes children to multiple risk factors. Their physical, psychological and social development may be hindered by insufficient nutrition, no access to education or health care, and lack of the emotional connection and support that every child needs.

Without a caring and protective parent, a child is more vulnerable to neglect, abuse, discrimination, exploitation and poverty.

Research has even demonstrated that the lack of love, care and support of a caregiver also impairs the development of a child's brain. 

Children who suffer from a lack of sufficient care:

• are more prone to depression and substance abuse later on

• do less well at school

• have a higher rate of attempted suicide

• are more likely to struggle with focusing and developing social skills

• do not develop the resilience to cope with inevitable adversity

• are more likely to experience health issues

• are less likely to access the public support system