Getting started Backing organisations that stand with families in the first years of life

We fund organisations that support families during pregnancy and the first five years of a child’s life.

The early years matter. They shape a child’s future health, education and wellbeing. They lay the foundations for opportunity later in life. But not all children get the same start. Too many grow up in families held back by poverty, insecure housing, poor access to services and high levels of stress. The effects show early. By the time children start school, the gap in development between those growing up in more disadvantaged circumstances and their peers is already wide. That gap is often hard to close.

Funds in this area

We support families with young children in different ways, funding areas from maternity equity to early years parenting under our Getting started priority. Visit our Grants page to see our open funds and apply.

Why Getting started?

Research shows that 90% of brain development happens by the age of five. A child’s progress by the age of 22 months is a strong predictor of their educational outcomes at 26.

That’s why our Getting started priority focuses on intervening early. We fund organisations that support families during pregnancy and the first five years of a child’s life. This includes helping parents feel confident and connected, and making sure children get the best possible start.

We also back work that addresses the root causes of inequality. This includes tackling the structural barriers that keep families locked in poverty.

By investing in the early years, we are supporting organisations to create lasting change. This gives children the best chance to thrive and helps build a fairer society from the start.

Our vision for change

• Families feel confident, supported and connected. They have what they need at home and in their community to help their children grow and flourish.
• Children are healthy, curious and confident. They are ready to learn, play and build strong relationships.
• Families can access high-quality early years support in welcoming, local spaces that reflect their needs and strengths.
• Policies put families first. They remove barriers so every child has the chance to thrive, no matter their background or postcode.