A new 3‑year plan to help babies, young children and families get the best possible start in life was approved by Bracknell Forest Council’s Cabinet meeting last month.
The Best Start in Life Plan 2026 to 2029 will support families from pregnancy until a child starts school. It focuses on helping children grow, learn and stay healthy, and making sure families can get help early before problems escalate.
The plan will bring services together, so families get the right support at the right time. It will:
- support healthy pregnancies and births
- help parents bond with their babies
- improve mental health support for parents
- boost children’s learning, language and development
- help children be ready for school
- give extra support to families who need it most
Support will be available through family hubs, health services, nurseries and pre-schools and community groups. Services will work more closely together so families do not have to repeat their story or struggle to find help.
The plan will help:
- children arrive at school ready to learn
- parents feel confident and supported
- families to get help earlier, closer to home
- children with additional needs get better support
- communities become healthier and fairer
Cllr Megan Wright, cabinet member for children, young people and health, said:
“What happens in the first 5 years of life shapes a child’s future health, learning and wellbeing. By acting early, the council and its partners can help children thrive, reduce gaps between families, and prevent problems later on. This means better outcomes for children and less pressure on specialist services in the future.
“Progress will be checked every year to make sure the plan is working and making a real difference for families. By approving the Best Start in Life Plan, the council has taken an important step to improve the lives of babies and young children – and to build a stronger, healthier future for the whole community.”
Delivery of the plan will be backed by £2.14 million of government funding over 3 years, from 2026 to 2029. The plan will be delivered with partners across health, education and the voluntary sector, to make sure of a joined‑up approach that puts families first.
Read the full cabinet report on the council’s website.
