![](/media/kvgdwgze/75aa85beb86747dc4697f7306f7b61ba.gif?width=1002&height=668&bgcolor=White&v=1da4da2d5e0c850)
It is possible to break the cycle of abuse and poor parenting that blights a minority of families in our communities. Pregnancy and the first year of a baby's life offer a critical window of opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to vulnerable children's lives.
The NSPCC's Strategy to 2016 has early intervention at its heart. There is a compelling rationale for focusing on pregnancy and the first year as a key priority in our mission to end cruelty to children. Maltreatment of babies is particularly shocking, both because of the relative frequency with which it occurs (for example, 45 per cent of Serious Case Reviews relate to under-ones), but also because of the babies' total vulnerability and dependence.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here