URL: https://democratic.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4211

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: 1. Approve the publication of the Best Start in Life plan. 2. To delegate authority to Executive Director - People and Cabinet member for Children and Young People, Education & Learning to approve amendments to the plan in line with further national guidance

Content: 1. Approve the publication of the Best Start in Life plan. 2. To delegate authority to Executive Director - People and Cabinet member for Children and Young People, Education & Learning to approve amendments to the plan in line with further national guidance RESOLVED that the Cabinet: ·       Approves the Best Start in Life Plan 2026–2029. ·       Delegates authority to the relevant Executive Director, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People to make minor non-material amendments to the Plan. Cabinet approval is required to adopt the Plan as the council’s agreed strategic framework for families from pregnancy to age five. This will help ensure the council and partners are aligned to the Government’s Best Start in Life agenda, with clear local priorities, a coordinated approach to delivery, and appropriate accountability for improving outcomes and reducing inequalities.   The Plan supports alignment with relevant national policy and guidance, including the Government’s Best Start in Life programme and the Family Hubs model. Locally, it aligns with the Learning Improvement Strategy Excellence, equity and culture 2026–31 and the Families First programme, as well as other partnership strategies (e.g., the Health and Wellbeing Strategy and Early Help strategy). This provides a single, agreed set of priorities and measures for partners and supports coordinated delivery across the system.   The following options were considered: ·       Do nothing / continue with current arrangements: not recommended as it would not provide a clear, shared strategic direction or measurable commitments to improve outcomes. ·       Approve the Plan as drafted (recommended): provides an agreed framework, priorities and measures for delivery and accountability. ·       Delay approval pending further development: would slow momentum and partnership alignment; any further refinements can be managed through delegated authority for non-material changes.   None.

Date of Decision: May 19, 2026