Evidence shows that joined-up, high-quality support is a key factor in making sure that babies and young children get the support they need during the crucial first five years of life. As part of their Best Start in Life strategy, the government has set an ambitious target of 75% of children reaching a good level of development by 2028. To improve outcomes at a local level and deliver this target, local authorities are being tasked with developing ambitious local plans by the end of March, to deliver a step change in their early-years services.

The local Best Start in Life local plans are an opportunity to level up the good work that local authorities already do delivering for families and take a fresh focus on how to achieve impact. Nesta is working directly with local authorities across the country to help them develop the ambitious plans needed within the tight timescale, providing a package of support to help local authorities develop data-led and evidence-informed local plans.

We have tested demand with local authorities and created a core offer of freely available online resources alongside opportunities for peer learning and problem-solving at regional events, and 1:1 coaching.

Nesta has launched personalised early-years data profiles for each local authority, designed to help local authorities understand their good level of development results, population characteristics and outcomes for children and families. We have also published the first part of a strategy playbook, which offers guidance and digital tools to support evidence-based decision-making.

Local authorities also have access to the Parenting Support Commissioning Assistant for Local Areas (PASCAL), designed to help simplify the complex process local authorities face when trying to identify the best interventions for their area to support parenting and the home learning environment.

All the resources can be accessed in our dedicated microsite.

Nesta is continuing to collaborate with local authorities to develop our offer. In the coming weeks, we will add sections to the playbook focused on strategic prioritisation and monitoring and evaluation.

We’ll be meeting with local authorities across the country at our regional events between 28 January and 2 February.

If you would like to sign up for updates or have any feedback, contact the team at [email protected]