Best Start in Life Strategy

In West Berkshire, we are committed to ensuring that every child (regardless of background, circumstance or where they live) has the strongest foundations from pregnancy through to age five.

Our Best Start Strategy [1MB] sets out how we will create a seamless, inclusive and high‑quality system of support that helps children grow up healthy, happy, curious and ready to learn.

Building on the strength of our existing Family Hubs, early years providers, health services and community partners, the strategy brings together evidence, local data, and the voices of families and practitioners to create a shared plan for change. It responds to the challenges identified in our Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, including persistent inequalities, rural access barriers, variation in early learning outcomes, and rising complexity of family need.

By integrating health, education and family support, and by targeting resources where they will have the greatest impact, we aim to reduce these inequalities and improve outcomes for all children.

The Best Start Strategy outlines a clear roadmap for 2026 to 2028 and beyond. It focuses on strengthening early child development, improving perinatal and family wellbeing, increasing access to high‑quality early education, and embedding co‑production at every stage. Through enhanced Family Hubs, digital access, targeted interventions and strong partnership working, we will deliver a system that is easy to navigate, responsive, and shaped by the experiences of local families. Together, we are creating a future where every child in West Berkshire can thrive.