Dawn Bowden MS, Minister for Children and Social Care
The Welsh Government is committed to supporting children to have the best possible start in life. This year marks twenty years of Flying Start, a programme that reflects our long‑standing commitment to improving outcomes for babies, young children and their families across Wales.
Flying Start was established to make a positive and lasting difference to the life chances of children under the age of four living in some of our most disadvantaged communities. Its four core elements; fully funded quality childcare, parenting support, intensive health visiting and support for speech, language and communication continue to provide a strong, evidence‑based foundation for early intervention.
Since its inception, Flying Start has continued to evolve, drawing on evidence, delivery experience and emerging insights to ensure it remains responsive, effective and focused on giving children the best possible start in life.
This anniversary is an important milestone. It demonstrates what we can achieve when the Welsh Government, local authorities, health boards and communities work together with shared purpose and determination. Flying Start remains a central part of our early years programme and the Welsh Government recognises its vital role in improving outcomes for babies, young children and their families.
From the outset, local authorities have played a pivotal role in shaping and delivering Flying Start. Their leadership, dedication and deep understanding of local need ensure that support reaches babies, young children and families who benefit most. Health colleagues make a vital contribution; their early advice and guidance help families feel informed and supported, ensuring families receive the right help at the right time.
The childcare workforce has been central to the success of Flying Start childcare over the past twenty years. Their professionalism, care and commitment create safe, nurturing environments that help children to develop confidence and strong foundations for the future.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to building on the strong foundations established over the past two decades. The continuing expansion of funded, high‑quality childcare for two‑year‑olds while strengthening Welsh medium provision across Wales is a key commitment for this government.
Offering families the opportunity to access this childcare provision supports every child to have the best start in life, meaning that every family feels supported and every community sees the long‑term benefits of early investment.
Flying Start demonstrates what is possible when we invest early, listen to communities and work together to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of babies, young children and families across Wales.