New Best Start in Life Plan to give West Northants children the strongest start

22 June 2026

Children and families in West Northamptonshire will benefit from earlier help, better access to support and stronger local services under a new Best Start in Life Plan, aimed at giving every child the best possible start and helping them thrive. 

The plan, launched by West Northamptonshire Council, places a strong emphasis on early intervention, prevention and strong relationships with families, focusing on the years from birth to five. It forms a key part of the broader ambition set out in the Council's One West Northants Plan, which aims to make the area a great place to grow up and raise a family. 

At the heart of this plan is a commitment to making West Northamptonshire known as a child-friendly place, where children are supported by their families, high-quality early education and strong communities. 

The plan recognises that giving children the best start requires a joined-up approach, bringing together council services, health partners, education providers and the voluntary sector. 

This is being supported by the continued rollout of Best Start Family Hubs, which will play a vital role in delivering integrated support for families with young children locally. 

These hubs bring together a wide range of services under one roof, providing easier access to support such as health visiting, parenting advice, early education and community services. They are designed to strengthen local communities while ensuring families receive coordinated, consistent support. 

Cllr Michael Stratton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education said: “Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and this new plan marks a significant step forward in how we support families across West Northamptonshire. By focusing on early intervention and working more closely with our partners, we can make sure families get the right help at the right time. 

“This approach sits alongside our new Youth Strategy, creating a joined-up pathway of support from the earliest years through to adulthood. Along with the rollout of our Best Start Family Hubs, we are building stronger communities and giving every child the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.”