Recent findings from the Early Education and Childcare Coalition (EECC) show that a significant majority of UK voters believe that increasing investment in early childcare and education will enhance children's life chances and yield substantial benefits for the nation. The global evidence supporting the long-term returns on investment in the early years is also compelling. Despite this, it’s unclear how much the government will be prioritising investment in the early years.

Nesta’s fairer start mission hosted a panel event at the Labour Party Conference which delved into the case for increased investment in the early years, education and early child development. We brought together policymakers and early-years experts and explored the evidence supporting more investment in the early years, discussed the complexities and challenges and explored differing perspectives on its potential long-term impact on the economy and society.