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Labour urged to revive Sure Start initiative

Labour leaders push to reinstate Sure Start to reconnect with voters and support families nationwide.

August 1, 2025 at 08:28 AM

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Labour leaders push for a revival of the Sure Start initiative to regain lost trust among voters.

Labour faces pressure to reinvigorate Sure Start initiative

Labour leaders are calling for the revival of the Sure Start initiative as a strategy to reconnect with voters who have shifted towards Reform in traditionally Labour strongholds. A recent commission advocating for this push highlights that 76% of respondents support the return of family centres under the Sure Start brand. The proposal comes amidst plans for a government initiative called Best Start, which will offer a network of family hubs across England by 2028. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced a £500 million investment to introduce up to 1,000 family hubs, beginning in April 2026. This effort aims to provide a centralized point for various support services, including health and wellness, to families, addressing the gaps left by the closure of over 1,400 Sure Start centres since 2010.

Key Takeaways

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Labour is urged to revive the Sure Start initiative to regain voter support.

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76% of the public backs the return of family centres under the Sure Start brand.

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Best Start initiative plans to establish 1,000 family hubs by 2028.

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£500 million investment announced for the new project.

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Original Sure Start centres were seen as a major success under Labour's past leadership.

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Concerns exist about whether new initiatives can replicate previous successes.

"76% of people recognised the Sure Start brand and want it revived."

This reflects strong public support for the reintroduction of family services.

"The Best Start initiative aims to restore critical support for families across England."

It showcases the government’s attempt to fill the void left by previous funding cuts.

"We need to make really big decisions in the autumn budget."

Anneliese Dodds emphasizes the importance of transparent budget strategies to address current needs.

"The Sure Start label is a symbol of trust for communities damaged by austerity."

Hilary Armstrong highlights the significance of the brand in rehabilitation efforts for Labour.

The call to revive the Sure Start initiative reveals Labour's recognition of the shift in voter sentiment towards Reform. By championing familiar programs like Sure Start, Labour seeks to rebuild trust and highlight its commitment to community welfare. The new Best Start initiative may be designed to fill gaps created by austerity measures, but critics may question whether it can live up to the original vision and effectiveness of Sure Start. As Labour navigates the political landscape, the challenge will be to demonstrate that these new proposals genuinely benefit families and restore the party's former reputation as a defender of social welfare.