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Raising a family in England? Free Best Start Family Hubs can help from pregnancy to 19

Best Start Family Hubs are free local services run by councils in towns and cities across England. They bring help for families together in one place, from pregnancy until children are 19, or 25 for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Many sessions are drop-in.

Reviewed 08/11/2026 · Applies to: England

Who this helps

Parents, carers and parents-to-be in England, especially families new to their area who want local support.

What to do

  1. Find your nearest hub using the find-a-family-hub link on the Best Start in Life website, or search your local council's website.
  2. Check the hub's timetable. Most sessions are drop-in, so you can often just turn up.
  3. Ask what is on for your child's age, such as play sessions, feeding and sleep advice, speech and development guidance, and help getting ready for school.
  4. Ask for help with benefits and childcare funding if money is a worry.
  5. If you are struggling, ask about mental health support for parents.
  6. Hubs work with health visitors and midwives, so ask staff how to connect with them.
  7. If your child has SEND, ask about support up to age 25 and speak to the hub's Best Start Inclusion Practitioner.

Before you act

  • Best Start Family Hubs are in England only. If you live elsewhere in the UK, ask your local council what family support is available.
  • What each hub offers varies by area. The government aims to have up to 1,000 hubs across England by the end of 2028, so check what is available near you.
  • Hubs are free to use, but they are a route into support, not a guarantee of any particular service or payment.

Take the next step

Continue to the provider’s website to check the latest details and use the service.

Best Start Family Hubs: what they offer and how to find one ↗

Destination: beststartinlife.gov.uk

Sources

MyAgumba explains the sources above. Eligibility and availability depend on your circumstances and the provider’s current rules.