New data has found that one in 10 toddlers in Bury cannot communicate properly.

Data collected from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities have shown that 338 of 376 children aged between two and two-and-a-half in Bury met the expected ability for communication in the three months to March.

This worked out that 38 children (10.1 per cent) did not have normal communication skills for their age.

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Across England 14 per cent of children failed to meet the expected communication standard however this varied from area to area with London having one of the highest numbers of children not being able to communicate properly.

Bury North MP James Daly said: “These figures are definitely concerning.

“For me, the idea that lockdowns have had an impact on this is likely to be the case and I know there has been significant research into this.

“The pandemic and our response to it have had far-reaching consequences and were an incredibly difficult time for our nation and the world.

“Being isolated at such an important time for the development of a child is challenging to overcome.

“We must work together across all levels of Government to ensure these figures are addressed and children have the support they need going forward.”

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Cllr Lucy Smith, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “No child should be left behind in this way.

“The causes are varied and not only due to the lockdown and the pandemic but the cost-of-living crisis we have faced since.

“The first 1,000 days of life are now a priority for the integrated care board, making sure health professionals see children at the right developmental age so support can be given.

“Our new family hub and early years offer will help make sure every child is ready for school, but this has been a challenge without government funding, and all too often Bury is overlooked for government grants and sufficient health money.”

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