Best start and early years

The early years of a child’s life provide the foundations for their childhood and beyond across a range of outcomes. This includes social and emotional development, health and education. That is why it is so important that we do all we can to give every baby in Darlington the best start in life. This is in line with the Marmot Review [external link] and the government's Best Start for Life guidance [external link] 

Best start in life is a key theme of the Darlington Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy [pdf document]. This was developed by the Health and Wellbeing Board and partners, ensuring an ongoing focus on identified priorities and actions.

This work will be further strengthened through the establishment of the Best Start Family Hub and delivery of the Best Start in Life plan. The plan has the following aims:

• maternal and early years health services
• home learning environment and parental interventions
• early childhood education and care access and quality
• special Educational Needs and Disabilities Support
• transition to school and reception year

This includes early support using a ‘think family’ approach and listening to the voice of the child to achieve the best outcomes for children and young people growing up in Darlington.