Community Connector

About Better Start The Blackpool Better Start partnership is one of five locations in the UK to receive funding from the National Lottery Community Fund to support initiatives in early intervention and prevention for the early years. The partnership brings together the NSPCC, Blackpool Council, NHS health organisations, Police, local parents and community organisations to collaboratively make the sustainable changes needed within services and systems supporting early years to ensure every baby has the best start in life. The vision and ambition of the partnership has been translated into action and results, with the leadership and strategic direction to the partnership being provided by the Centre for Early Child Development (Better Start). The Centre brings together experts through multidisciplinary teams which includes, Programme and Community Development, Research and Evaluation, Communications, Business Support and Data Management. The centre is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of a range of evidence-based programmes and community-based initiatives on behalf of the Better Start Partnership. A range of initiatives which support families in relation to Diet and Nutrition, Speech Language and Communication and Social and Emotional Development have been co-developed, implemented and tested for impact in Blackpool. Better Start is able to combine early years science and evidence with designing and delivering front line services that reach families and children at the right time. The creative approach refined in Blackpool is now being cascaded to other organisations, supporting decision makers to focus on improving children's outcomes, the importance of early education for young children and building parental capabilities. If you have any queries, please contact Michelle Ormerwood at michelle.ormerwood@nspcc.org.uk