William Eichler 10 July 2026

New fund to match council investment in family hubs

New fund to match council investment in family hubs image
© SewCreamStudio / Shutterstock.

The Department for Education has launched a new initiative that will see council funding for Best Start Family Hubs matched by investment from businesses, charities and social investors.

As part of the Best Start in Life Match Fund, councils will get hands-on support from a dedicated delivery partner, as the Government works to secure further backing from business and social investors nationwide.

Minister for Early Education Olivia Bailey said she will meet a new delivery coalition of sector and policy experts, leaders and parent influencers tasked with turbo-charging the rollout of hubs.

Every council is also set to receive the findings of a review into its local Best Start plan.

Over 200 hubs are already open and this is set to rise to 1,000 across every council area by 2028. There are also up to 2,000 satellite sites in places such as libraries and leisure centres.

Bailey said: ‘Best Start Family Hubs are already opening doors for families across the country – but I want every council to be bolder and go further than what came before. My message to every area is simple: this is your moment to raise your ambition for the families you serve.’

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