Parents, researchers, staff, councillors and partners came together to showcase the positive impact of the A Better Start Southend programme at a special Stories of Impact event, on 5th December.
Research has shown that 15,904 people across Southend have taken part in ABSS projects over the nine-and-a-half year lifespan of the programme to date, including 7,953 children aged 0 to 3, 1,759 pregnant women and 1,276 fathers.
Dr Nia Thomas, Director of ABSS, explained:
“Sharing the impact and legacy with those that have contributed so much to the success of the programme is incredibly important, especially as we come to the end of the A Better Start Southend National Lottery Community Fund grant. Looking back over the last nine and a half years is humbling. Parents and carers have been involved every step of the way; raising the problems that need solving, coming up with answers where possible, and helping us test ideas.
As we hand the baton over to organisations looking forward to beyond 2025, we are excited to see how the legacy of ABSS will be carried on by those who will continue to work with and support families in the City.”
The event included interactive displays that really brought to life the impact A Better Start has had on babies, children, families and the wider community.
Fifty event attendees heard from Dr Nia Thomas, ABSS Director, and Alex Khaldi, Chair of ABSS, about the impact of the programme. Tara Poore, CEO of City Family (CIC) talked about taking the legacy and learning from A Better Start forward in to 2025 and beyond, for families in Southend.
Tara Poore, CEO of City Family (CIC), said:
"Together, we can ensure the legacy of ABSS lives on – not just as a memory, but as a movement that continues to transform lives. By truly listening to families and meeting them where they are, we’ve seen how small, meaningful changes can create ripple effects across entire communities. This is not just about delivering services but about reimagining how we work together – with empathy, respect, and purpose. As we carry this vision forward, we remain steadfast in our belief that every child deserves a better start and a brighter future."
The Stories of Impact Roadshow will be coming to a location near you in 2025. It will showcase the impact, findings and learning from ABSS in venues across the City, as well as nationally to influence policy.
Further progress has been made on the future of support for families in Southend, as the A Better Start (ABSS) National Lottery Community Fund grant comes to an end in March 2025.
It has now been confirmed that some of the projects that ABSS has supported will be extended for a month or two, using the ABSS budget. These extensions will support organisations in finding longer term funding. Some projects have secured funding from other organisations, some will be changing and some will be delivered differently or end in their current form.
ABSS is continuing to work with local partners and organisations to consider the future of ABSS projects and determine how to continue giving Southend's babies the best start in life.
Those who want to know more about A Better Start Southend and Beyond ABSS can visit Beyond ABSS or email BeyondABSS@eyalliance.org.uk.