Better Start Longitudinal Programmes

Lord Kamall Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

My recollection from debating that point previously is that we are looking at the evidence and the best way to tackle the issue that the noble Baroness raises: in other words, what best supports children to have that healthy and best start in life? We are looking at this in the round and I am sure that we will return to it, but I will also be pleased to follow up in writing to the noble Baroness.

[Lord Kamall (Con)]

My Lords, many noble Lords would support the objectives of the Better Start longitudinal programme, with its focus on improving children’s diet and nutrition, social and emotional development, and speech, language and communication skills. But can the Minister explain how, rather than with a top-down, Whitehall or Westminster-knows-best attitude, it is working with local civil society organisations, such as BRITE Box, which works with families and local communities to help them learn how to cook healthier meals on a budget to improve their nutrition and well-being?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

This will not be a top-down approach. We are ensuring that Best Start Family Hubs and Healthy Babies are in every local authority area. That is a major development, because from April it will reach more than 500,000 more children. It will also help us transition to neighbourhood health services. However, all of this will, as ever, be more successful by working together with other groups, including third-sector organisations such as BRITE Box.