A new cross-European research programme will examine how improving the qualifications and skills of those working with our youngest children can help reduce poverty and improve social inclusion.

The research, taking place over the next two years, will produce a clear picture of the qualification and skill levels in early years services across the UK and how these relate to levels of poverty and social inclusion. Similar research will take place simultaneously in Poland, Norway, Italy, Slovenia, France, Denmark, Portugal, Sweden and Hungary and will offer an overview of developments throughout the EU. Once completed, the data will contribute towards policy development at an EU level as well as the rest of the UK.

Children in Wales' partner agency in Scotland, Children in Scotland, will lead the research programme. Chief executive Bronwen Cohen, said: "Simply having access to early years services can help address poverty and help all children, from different backgrounds and of different abilities, feel part of their communities. However, a lot more can be achieved if those working with the children are appropriately qualified and skilled.

"This is a particularly important research programme because it will focus on the skills and qualifications of the workforce and the contribution this makes to inclusive services and supporting families and communities. It will provide a complete picture of services right across Europe thus enabling us to compare what we are doing here in Scotland with other countries."

Catriona Williams, chief executive of Children in Wales, said: "Sharing information and good practice internationally is hugely important. This is a valuable opportunity for Wales to evaluate and compare the skills and career opportunities of those delivering early years services with what is happening across Europe and use the information to help improve young children's life chances and tackle inequality."

Jana Hainsworth, Secretary General of the European networking organisation Eurochild, said: "We advocate for greater leadership at EU level in the field of early years services. This important project will bring stronger, cross-EU evidence on good practice in service organisation and workforce development and training. We expect to learn more about how these services can impact on promoting inclusion and combating poverty."

Adam Ingram, the Scottish Minister for Children and the Early Years, said: "Developing the skills and career opportunities those delivering early years services is key to helping us give every child in Scotland the best possible start in life. That's why our Early Years Framework - which will help improve the life chances of all Scotland's young people and tackle inequalities - outlines how we can help improve training and opportunities in the early years workforce. This exciting programme will help us share good practice from across Europe as we move that forward and promote excellence in the sector."

The UK is one of only a small number of countries that have set an explicit target for poverty reduction. Providing high quality support for families early on is a key focus in achieving this target.