Best Start in Life Strategy

Our overarching vision and aims

Cumberland’s Best Start in Life Strategy sets out our collective ambition for every child in Cumberland to enjoy a healthy, happy childhood, with secure relationships, rich early learning experiences, and a strong sense of belonging.

Our ambitious targets for the end of the 2027 to 2028 academic year focus on reducing developmental gaps before children start school.

We aim for:

• 74.2% of children in Cumberland to achieve a Good Level of Development (GLD)
• 56.6% of children eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) to achieve the GLD

These outcomes will depend on a system-wide approach that supports families from pre-conception through to the end of the Reception year.

By strengthening integration across health, education, early years, social care and the voluntary sector, we will create a seamless, holistic offer that meets the needs of every child and family.