Early Moments Matter

Why are we campaigning?

Nearly 90% of parents with under fives are worried about their child’s future life chances.

Families are under growing pressure. With costs rising rapidly, it’s a struggle to afford even the basics that young children need. And the support systems they turn to are broken.   

Social security should be a safety net for all – but it isn’t working for parents. Affordable, quality childcare isn’t locally available for every child. Parents feel stressed and isolated. Over half say they have struggled with their mental health, but there is no support to help them cope.  Our survey with parents of under fives across Britain revealed that:

• 38% dread the holidays because of the financial strain they put on the family,   
• 25% have had to borrow money/gone into debt to make ends meet/pay for the essentials,  
• 63% report struggling with their mental health while being a parent,  
• 62% say childcare is one of the biggest challenges facing parents. 

It’s time to invest properly in early childhood. We need to break down the barriers children and their families face in accessing opportunities they are entitled to. Every young child has a right to the best start in life, to develop and thrive and be ready for the next phase. Ready to engage and learn in school, grow up healthy, and gain the skills for a fulfilling career.   

That’s why we’re campaigning for the UK Government to deliver a National Baby and Toddler Guarantee, because #EarlyMomentsMatter. As a priority, the guarantee will make sure that:

1. Every baby and toddler can access affordable, high quality early education and childcare in their local area.
2. Financial support that works for all parents and carers of babies and toddlers is accessible when they need it, including ending the two-child limit policy and benefit cap.
3. All parents and carers of babies and toddlers can access quality mental health support.