The best start in life
Giving every child the best start in life’ is the government’s strategy for improving child health and development and meeting the ambition that 75% of 5-year-olds in England have a good level of development by 2028, as set out in the Plan for Change.
At its heart is the new Best Start in Life website , where families can find trusted advice, as well as a range of helpful resources. Why is it important? Parents tell us that they don’t always know what they are entitled to or how to find trustworthy answers to questions about their children’s health and development. Best Start in Life will help parents and carers to find information about different support that will make a difference to them and their child.
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www.beststartinlife.gov.ukRashes in babies and children
Many things can cause a rash in babies and children, and they’re often nothing to worry about.
The NHS provide support for identifying some of the common rashes in babies and children.
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NHS: Rashes in babies and childrenNHS vaccinations and when to have them
It’s important that vaccines are given on time for the best protection. Check the dates your child needs to have their vaccinations by and contact your GP.
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NHS vaccinations and when to have themStart for Life
Trusted NHS help and advice during pregnancy, birth and parenthood.
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Start for LifeSEND and You
SEND and You support parents, carers, children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, along with their parents and carers in BNSSG.
SEND and You have created a new animated video to explain what they do.Care and Support for Children and Families
South Gloucestershire Council can provide information varying from safeguarding and reporting concerns, to what is being done to support children to have the best start, improving outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disability, improving mental health and wellbeing.
Find out about what is on offer to children and young families.HANDi app
The NHS HANDi App is a free resource for parents and carers looking after young children
The app takes you through a series of questions about the symptoms your child is experiencing and then advises on the best course of action, whether that’s to treat at home, to make a GP appointment, or to head to A&E.
Each of the illnesses has a home care plan to help you provide the best support for your child.Happy Maps
The aim of HappyMaps is to signpost parents to mental health resources for their children.
Website
www.happymaps.co.uk
Child health
Page published: 9 May 2023
Last updated: 20 October 2025