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First 1,000 Days of Life 2026-01-29
29 January 2026
Lead MP
Paulette Hamilton
Debate Type
General Debate
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Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Paulette Hamilton raised concerns about first 1,000 days of life 2026-01-29 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Health and Social Care Committee's fifth report focuses on the first 1,000 days of a child's life. It highlights poor health outcomes in children, rising obesity, uneven vaccination coverage, and persistent inequalities. The committee welcomes government expansion of family hubs but calls for more access to these services with reliable funding, urging a funded plan to recruit at least 1,000 additional health visitors due to a shortfall of 5,000 posts since 2015. Paulette Hamilton emphasises the need for a holistic approach involving various professionals and agencies working together.
Jen Craft
Lab
Thurrock
Agrees with Paulette Hamilton that government recommendations must be followed to prevent undermining reforms in special educational needs and disabilities. Emphasises the importance of rebuilding the health visitor network and ensuring early intervention.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dulwich and West Norwood
Welcomes the call for a children’s health workforce strategy and asks how government can ensure availability of early years workforce. Raises concerns about accountability in delivering support for special educational needs and disabilities.
Danny Beales
Lab
Uxbridge and South Ruislip
Highlights declining vaccination rates due to disinformation and lack of progress in implementing health visitor pilot projects. Urges restoration of 95% vaccination target and development of a new national strategy.
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