The Flying Start programme aims to make a decisive difference to the life chances of children aged under 4 in the areas in which it runs. It is led by the Children and Young People’s Framework partnerships.

Research evidence on early years suggests that only by investing intensively can a decisive impact be made on children’s outcomes.

The programme is delivered in defined areas, and the entitlement that all families in the local target areas can access is identified as:

• Quality part-time childcare for 2 year olds. Such childcare may be individual or centre-based, and part-time or full-time depending on need.
• Health visiting. Health visitors and midwives, working within a multi disciplinary partnership approach are a core part of the Flying Start entitlement.
• Parenting programmes. Parenting support services  based on both the universal and specific, individual needs of parents and their children.
• Basic Skills. Every family in a Flying Start area should have access to a Language and Play programme.
• Information sharing and referral. Flying Start funding may not however be able to fund additional specialist services for children with high needs if this puts the core entitlement in jeopardy. Referral to such services may be the best approach.

Flying Start Network

Children in Wales facilitates a Flying Start Network in Wales, bringing together the Flying Start Coordinators, at quarterly meetings, usually held in mid Wales.

For details of future meetings, please see the Events page.

Members of the Flying Start Network can share resources and contact other members of the network by visiting www.flyingstartnetwork.org.uk. Please contact info@childreninwales.org.uk for a password. 

If you would like further information please contact Lynne Hill,  Policy Director, Children in Wales.

Resources

• Qualitative Evaluation of Flying Start, IPSOS MORI August 2009