Best Start in Life strategy
Croydon is reviewing its Best Start in Life strategy, showing improved early development outcomes but facing questions on funding and access.
Croydon Council is currently reviewing its Best Start in Life strategy, which supports children from birth to five years old. A Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee review in October 2026 revealed provisional results showing an increase in children achieving a Good Level of Development, from 70.4% to 74.1%. This improvement was particularly noted for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and disadvantaged children, according to Councillor Andy Stranack.
Despite these positive early results, questions remain regarding the long-term funding and equitable access to services provided through the strategy and associated Family Hubs. The Best Start in Life strategy is a policy focused on supporting children from birth to five years old, encompassing perinatal mental health, infant feeding, and antenatal support, aiming to strengthen early intervention and improve access to support for young children and families.
Key facts
- Croydon's Best Start in Life Strategy saw an increase in children achieving a Good Level of Development from 70.4% to 74.1%. Source
- Councillor Andy Stranack highlighted gains for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and disadvantaged children. Source
- A Scrutiny Children & Young People Sub-Committee reviewed the strategy in October 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.