Evidence library
Sanctuary and Freedom: The Transformational Power of Spaces for Women and Girls
Briefing on the importance of women‑only spaces, to ensure women feel fully supported and safe.
Emerging Evaluation Findings From the ABS National Evaluation
Interim national evaluation report on early-years interventions using qualitative fieldwork, focusing on families and service delivery.
ABS National Evaluation Second Annual Report
This annual report from A Better Start (ABS) reviews progress in improving early years support. The report outlines system change and efforts to reduce inequalities for young children.
Early Action Neighbourhood Fund Evaluation Report
Final evaluation of the Emergency Active Neighbourhoods Fund. It assesses how community organisations supported vulnerable people during COVID-19 using a mixed-methods approach.
A Better Start Through Prevention and Early Intervention: Insights from The National Lottery Community Fund A Better Start Programme
A learning synthesis from A Better Start (ABS) on prevention and early intervention in early years. A report sharing lessons for improving support to reduce inequalities for young children.
A Better Start Through Maternity and Antenatal Care
A learning report from A Better Start (ABS) on maternity and antenatal care. It shares findings on improving early support for families during pregnancy.
How Women’s Projects Combat Disadvantage and Transform Lives
This report looks at specialist support services for women in the south-west of England.
A Better Start Through Improving Child Development Outcomes
Learning synthesis report focussing on evidence from the 5 A Better Start areas supporting better early childhood development.
Commissioning Better Outcomes Independent Evaluation - Synthesis Reports 2025
This Synthesis Report is the final report of the evaluation of the Commissioning Better Outcomes (CBO) programme.
The Women and Girls Initiative Synthesis Report 1 (2016-19)
A first learning synthesis of the Women and Girls Initiative, focusing on women facing disadvantage.
The evidence library archive
You can find more evidence library content on our archive site.