WEST WORCESTERSHIRE MP Dame Harriett Baldwin has backed legislation to support babies and parents in the first 1,001 days of a child’s life.
The Babies Bill sets out to give babies the best possible start from pregnancy up until their second birthday, laying the foundations for lifelong positive health, relationships and development.
Dame Harriett met with Sir Desmond Swayne MP in Parliament to show her support for the aims of his Private Member’s Bill, which would legally reinforce and expand the support currently being offered to young families.
Known formally as the Infants, Parents and Carers Bill, it was debated in Parliament on 17 June.
Dame Harriett said: “I frequently meet with our local Citizens Advice volunteers, Councils, schools and community groups, and put new and expectant parents in touch with them for support.
“We know that the earliest stages of a child’s life are absolutely vital in setting them up for a healthy and happy adulthood.
“I was proud that the previous Government expanded access to free childcare and introduced Best Start Family Hubs to give young families the support they need.
“We can however go further and that is why I was delighted to meet with Sir Desmond to back his Private Member’s Bill and give the next generation the best chance to succeed.”
