A Better Start National Evaluation Themed Annual Report: Parental Engagement

Introduction

The report presents findings about parental engagement which was a theme explored in depth as part of the ABS national evaluation in 2023. Findings include how parental engagement is understood within the ABS partnerships, and how it influences service delivery and outcomes.

Findings

The research found that parental engagement is essential to designing and delivering ABS services.  

Respondents viewed co‑production as parents and professionals working equally. They would use parents' insights to shape services, identify barriers, and encourage take‑up of local opportunities.

Partnerships used varied strategies, including outreach, reducing barriers, offering peer support, adapting services to improve accessibility, and upskilling parents as volunteers or staff. Parents contributed to governance and service design.  

Reported successes included inclusive communication, fostering community through relaxed, family‑led sessions, and ensuring mutual benefit by developing parents’ skills.  

Challenges included sustaining engagement, ensuring representative parent champions, and involving underrepresented groups. Co‑production was expected to influence the wider early‑years system through shared learning and ongoing dialogue.