Our Vision
Every child in Newcastle deserves the best possible start in life. The early years – from pregnancy to starting school – are a vital time for health, learning and happiness. When families get the right support early, children are more likely to thrive.
What we want for our children
🧒 Safe – at home, in childcare and in their community
💚 Healthy – growing well and supported to stay well
😊 Happy – feeling loved, confident and emotionally supported
📚 Ready to learn – curious, confident and developing well
🤝 Engaged – listened to, valued and connected
Who the plan focuses on
Most families will need support at different times. Some families may need us to offer different kinds of support, including:
- Families with babies and young children
- Families in parts of the city experiencing unequal outcomes
- Families facing financial hardship
- Children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND)
- Families where English is not the main language
- Young parents, fathers and male carers
What we will do
👪 Support parents and early learning at home – friendly advice on play, language and emotional development
🏫 Improve childcare and early education – more good‑quality places where they are most needed
🔄 Help children move into school – better sharing of information and smoother transitions
🧩 Strengthen SEND support – clear routes to help and joined‑up services
🩺 Improve health for babies and young children – early checks and support that families trust
Best Start Family Hubs
Family Hubs are welcoming local places where families can get support in one place. They bring services together, offer activities close to home, and help families get support earlier.
Families at the heart of the plan
Families will help shape services through feedback, co‑design and ongoing conversations.
How we will know it is working
✅ More children are doing well when they start school, as measured at the end of their reception year
✅ Families can find and access support more easily
✅ Improved health outcomes for children
Read the full plan
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