To kick off 2018, we’ve compiled a list of 18 reasons why the early years of a child’s life are so important for social mobility and people’s life chances.

Before Christmas, the Government published its plans for improving social mobility through education, with a focus on early years a key priority.

In 2017, we launched the Early Years Social Action Fund to scale proven social action interventions that improve child developmental outcomes by directly supporting parents.

As the UK struggles with challenges of stagnating social mobility, increasing inequality, and lagging productivity, these 18 insights from the current data show why in 2018 we need to do more to support new ideas - like those of the five organisations we’re backing or these businesses we’re investing in - that help give all children the best chance to fulfil their potential.

These 18 reasons go to show that early years is at the heart of social mobility. They underscore the importance - both at an individual and societal level - of focusing on ideas and interventions that can impact child outcomes as soon as possible so that no child begins school behind the starting line.

If you would like to find out more about the Early Years Social Action programme, any of the specific projects or how you can commission early years innovations, please get in touch at [email protected] and keep an eye out for a series of events we’re planning this year.