Best Start in Life
Councils are currently developing integrated family support through Family Hubs and setting targets for early childhood development.
Councils are currently advancing their Best Start in Life initiatives, with Brent Council prioritising children's health and early childhood development, as discussed by its Health and Wellbeing Board in July 2026. Redbridge Council's strategy, which includes integrated support through family hubs, was reviewed in July 2026, backed by a £3.892 million grant over three years. Bexley Council is also rolling out four Best Start Family Hubs, with full implementation projected by March 2027.
Sutton Council is exploring proposals for a new SEND Family Hub as part of its commitment to increasing the number of five-year-olds reaching a good level of development by 2028. Hammersmith and Fulham Council's Best Start in Life plan, launched in March 2026, outlines priorities for seamless service integration and high-quality early education until 2029. Bexley Council expects the full rollout of its four Best Start Family Hubs by March 2027.
The Best Start in Life initiative is a national programme focused on early intervention and support for young children and families, aiming to improve early years development, health, and well-being. It often involves strategies for children from pregnancy to age five, with some councils extending support up to age 19.
Key facts
- Brent Council's Health and Wellbeing Board discussed the Best Start in Life initiative in July 2026. Source
- Redbridge Council's Best Start in Life strategy is supported by a £3.892 million grant over three years. Source
- Bexley Council plans to complete the full rollout of four Best Start Family Hubs by March 2027. Source
- Hammersmith and Fulham Council launched its Best Start in Life plan in March 2026. Source
- Sutton Council aims to increase the number of five-year-olds reaching a good level of development by 2028. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.