It’s all change at Number 10 this week.

Listen to this article

Andy Burnham has a new Cabinet and a fresh mandate to lead the country. But what hasn’t changed are the challenges facing the nation - not least those affecting our babies, children, young people and families.

That’s why we believe that, alongside establishing his new Cabinet, the PM should also introduce a new post: Secretary of State for Families and Children, who can coordinate policy across Whitehall and create a real impact.

It’s needed now more than ever, because family policy stands at a crossroads. Starmer’s legacy will have a lasting impact on families. The expansion of Family Hubs offers a great opportunity to embed a new model of integrated, family-centred support - one that is cross-departmental and rooted in evidence. Work has started on important reforms outlined in the Best Start in Life Strategy, introducing a social media ban, reforming social care, addressing child poverty, and establishing a commitment towards improving school readiness.

However, much of this work remains unfinished and the momentum can’t stop now.........

© LBC