A Better Start Southend is a ten-year test and learn programme aiming to make Southend the best place in the country to be a child – and a parent. We started life in April 2015 and are one of five Better Start sites across the country funded by The National Lottery Community Fund. We provide free projects and services for children under four, parents and expectant parents. A Better Start Southend looks to bring parents, carers and professionals together to develop new services for young children and their families, because we believe we will only be successful if we work with the people who understand Southend’s children best. We are focusing on families in six local wards (identified in our successful bid) – Kursaal, Milton, Shoeburyness, Victoria, Westborough and West Shoebury. Find out more about the A Better Start Southend programme at www.abetterstartsouthend.co.uk You can follow us on Twitter: @ABSSouthend, and like our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/abetterstartsouthend