The Health & Social Care Committee has published a report looking into the first 1,000 days of a child's life.
Rukshana Kapasi, Barnardo’s Director of Health, said: “The early years of a child’s life are fundamental in shaping their future. Supporting children and families is one of the most effective levers for reducing inequalities, unlocking potential, and improving outcomes.
“That is why we welcome the Health and Social Care Select Committee’s report into the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, and particularly its recommendation for sustained investment in Family Hubs, backed by long-term, ring-fenced investment.
“Family Hubs offer a safe, welcoming space where parents and children can access vital support. At their best, these centres are a local neighbourhood ‘nerve centre’ – where parents can come for a ‘stay and play’ session, and in the same familiar and welcoming environment, receive help with breastfeeding, talk to a health visitor, receive support with speech and language, attend a parenting course, and even access highly specialist help with issues such as domestic abuse and substance abuse, for those who need it.
“The government must now build on the commitment in the Best Start in Life Strategy to expand Family Hub services into every community, coming one step closer to its pledge to raise the healthiest generation of children.”