Backing the Babies Bill

I am proud to be backing the Babies Bill, new legislation aimed at strengthening support for babies, parents and carers during pregnancy and the first two years of life. Introduced by Sir Desmond Swayne MP, the Bill focuses on the crucial first 1,001 days, when a child’s earliest experiences can shape lifelong health and development.

The Bill would strengthen the support already provided through services including Best Start Family Hubs, health visiting, maternity services, infant feeding and perinatal mental health support. It would help ensure families can access trusted support early, while requiring greater accountability for the help available and the difference it makes.

Every baby deserves the best start in life. This Bill is about supporting families, not judging them, and ensuring babies remain at the heart of decisions about health, family services and early years support.