Andrea Leadsom has announced she will be conducting a review of the first, crucial 1001 days.
The review will look at reducing inequalities in young children from conception to age two and a half, aiming to ensure every baby is given the best possible start in life.
Anna Feuchtwang, Chief Executive of NCB, said:
‘The first 1001 days at the beginning of a child’s life are the foundation on which their future life chances are built.
‘We welcome Andrea Leadsom’s early years Review as an opportunity to make sure the support provided right from conception gives children the best possible start. It is so important that inequality doesn’t hold children back, so we particularly welcome the Review’s commitment to address this issue.
‘The voice of parents must be central to the Review . Our research into infant mental health confirmed that building parents’ capacity to have rich and rewarding relationships with their children can make the greatest difference. Bringing parents on board is crucial, particularly those who have to overcome inequality themselves, particularly as a result of income, ethnicity or disability.
‘The Review’s recommendations must be backed by investment. In order for Andrea Leadsom’s work to influence the Spending Review in the autumn, we urge her to publish interim findings, particularly around addressing the funding crisis undermining health visitors and early years settings, to ensure that crucial decisions on spending are not made before the Review is published.’