Politicians must do more to guard their children’s mental health, says historian

Professor finds pattern of wellbeing problems in political families, often linked to parents' work

Prominent politicians must do more to protect the mental wellbeing of their children, according to a leading historian whose research has revealed the enormous pressures faced by those with parents in the government.

Prof Elizabeth Hurren, the chair in modern history at the University of Leicester, found a troubling pattern of mental health and wellbeing problems in children of politicians, which were often linked to their parents' work and the relentless attention that comes with public life.