In its report, Making Britain Great for Children and Families, 4Children urged the decision makers to make a family commitment to all aspects of the local community, including planning, public spaces and parks, transport and policing. It also wants to see action to solve the issues behind 'problem estates', including action on gangs.
A YouGov poll of more than 2,000 people, carried out on behalf of 4Children, shows that nearly a quarter of families, 22 per cent, are concerned about paying their energy bills or are struggling to pay them.
The poll also found 60 per cent of people would not know where to go for help if a member of their family had housing problems.
Around a quarter do not think their neighbourhood is a good one for children to grow up in and that better access to more parks and open spaces for children to play in would make the most positive difference to their family life.
The research comes during Cold Homes Week, a national campaign for warmer homes and lower bills, which also highlights the impact of poor quality housing on family life.
Anne Longfield, chief executive of 4Children, said the link between housing, poverty and children’s life chances “must be acknowledged”.
She said:
"There is growing recognition of the need for high quality, more affordable, social housing, but we must also invest in housing that offers children the childhoods they deserve, with sufficient living space, a good communal area and open play areas nearby.
Britain needs a radical culture change in its entire system of support for families, from housing and public services to childcare and workplace policy. It's in everyone's interest to think long term about redesigning our neighbourhoods and communities for Britain's children and families of the future."
Julia Unwin, chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, added:
"We know that places matter to people in poverty. It is unacceptable that in England in 2014 people in the poorest neighbourhoods will die an average of seven years earlier than those in the richest neighbourhoods. That’s why services and homes are so important. Both can provide the bedrock for a stable, secure and prosperous upbringing.
We can invest in our infrastructure now - our homes, our childcare - or store up trouble for the future."
