The Government-commissioned Marmot Review calls for 'a rebalancing of public spending towards the early years', stressing that what happens in early life, starting in the womb, has long-term effects on health and well-being from obesity, heart disease and mental health, to educational achievement and economic status.
'The review proposes a rebalancing of public spending towards the early years, more parenting programmes, a well trained early years workforce and high-quality early years care,' the report said.
The findings were backed by the Daycare Trust. Chief executive Alison Garnham, said, 'I am pleased the Review has accepted the evidence that good-quality early years education and care is essential for children's development, and has wider social and economic benefits.'