A Better Start Through Prevention and Early Intervention: Insights from The National Lottery Community Fund A Better Start Programme

Introduction

This research explores prevention and early intervention in the A Better Start (ABS) programme. It examines how local areas improved early support for families and children. The research focuses on preventing problems from escalating and reducing inequalities.

It’s intended to inform

• funders

• policymakers

• local service leaders

Findings

The research found that prevention and early intervention improved support for families before problems became more serious. This improved outcomes for children and families. Early intervention also helped reduce gaps in access to support.

The research found that:

• early contact helped identify needs sooner

• trusted relationships improved engagement with families

• joined up working reduced gaps between services

• early support improved access for disadvantaged families

• sustained investment helped maintain early help

These findings show that prevention can reduce inequalities and improve early childhood support.