Buckinghamshire Council has given the green light to establish two new 'Best Start Family Hubs' (BSFHs) in High Wycombe and Burnham. The decision, made on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, signifies a significant step forward in the council's 'Best Start in Life' program, which is designed to offer comprehensive support to families with young children and foster improved early years development.
Expanding Support for Young Families
The new hubs are intended to provide accessible, targeted assistance to families, ensuring that young children receive the necessary support during their crucial early years. This initiative aligns with the national 'Best Start in Life' program, which mandates local authorities to bolster early years and family services. The ultimate goal is to enhance children's developmental trajectories, improve their preparedness for primary school, and increase the proportion of children achieving a 'Good Level of Development' (GLD) by the end of their reception year. The first BSFH under this program was launched in Elmhurst, Aylesbury, last month, marking a consistent effort to roll out these vital community resources.
Hub Locations and Strategic Importance
The new hub in High Wycombe will be strategically located to serve a significant number of families, while the Burnham hub will be established at the site of the former Adult Services Day Centre. Carl Jackson, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion. "Today's decision allows Buckinghamshire Council to build on the positive start we have made to our Best Start Family Hub programme," Jackson stated. "The new Best Start Family Hubs in High Wycombe and Burnham will make it easier for local families to access the support they need, when they need it, and will help ensure every child in Buckinghamshire has the best possible start in life."
Ambitious Targets for Child Development
Buckinghamshire has set an ambitious target to have 80% of children achieve a Good Level of Development by the 2027/28 academic year. This includes a particular focus on improving outcomes for children eligible for free school meals. Achieving this target will necessitate a strong emphasis on early, preventative support for families facing greater challenges. The BSFHs are expected to play a pivotal role in this endeavor, offering a coordinated and comprehensive package of early years support as an integral part of the council's existing Family Hub network. These hubs are crucial for ensuring that no child falls through the gaps between different services and that families can access help when it is most needed.