CYP Now - Fragmented early years support system failing vulnerable families, councils warn

Vulnerable families across London are missing out on vital support due to a fractured early years support system, a new report finds.

GPs are often 'isolated' from other services, London Councils' report finds. Picture: Adobe Stock

Just over a quarter of London’s local authorities have the mechanisms in place for good integrated working, London Councils' Beyond Boundaries report finds.

This is “broadly reflective” of the national picture, said report author Jodie Reed of the Isos Partnership.

GPs and maternity services were found to be the least well integrated with other early years services, with GPs rated “most isolated” by a “considerable distance”.

This message was echoed by the parents who contributed to the research, who said that despite depending on GPs as a first point of contact, they did not always feel their advice or signposting was well aligned with other sources of support.

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