Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what role local authorities will have in the (a) delivery and (b) day-to-day operation of Best Start Family Hubs.

​​Ensuring every child has the best start in life, the chance to achieve and to thrive, are the foundation stones of the government’s Opportunity Mission.

​The government is investing over £500 million to create a network of up to 1,000 Best Start Family Hubs across every local authority in England by 2028. Best Start Family Hubs builds on previous investment into Family Hubs and Start for Life services between 2022 and 2026 for 88 local authorities.

​Local authorities will deliver joined up and enhanced services through family hubs so that all parents and carers can access the support they need, when they need it. Local authorities will receive a programme guide with minimum delivery expectations and will be expected to develop clear plans to establish and enhance family hubs in their area. Their role will include identifying family hub sites, commissioning services within family hubs and the recruitment of staff to deliver services. Services will vary depending on local needs, though examples are: 'stay and play' sessions for child and families, parenting advice and courses, support for children‘s language and emotional development, health services, and support for parents in creating a positive home learning environment.