A Better Start Through Better Systems: Parent, Family and Community Engagement

Introduction

This research explores parent, family and community engagement in the A Better Start (ABS) programme. It looks at how local areas involve families in designing and improving early years services. The research aims to identify how local systems can improve. It’s intended to inform:

• funders

• policymakers

• local service leaders

Findings

The research found that engaging parents and communities strengthens early years systems. Areas that invested time in building trust and relationships saw more influence from families in service design. Engagement worked best when it was ongoing and well supported.

The research found that:

• trusted relationships helped parents shape local services

• shared decision-making increased confidence and leadership among parents

• clear roles and support structures improved participation

• engagement required time, resources and skilled support

• power imbalances could limit meaningful involvement

The findings show that engagement is most effective when embedded in wider system change.