Best Start in Life programme earns national 5-Star recognition for second year

Families in Dorset are celebrating as the Best Start in Life programme has once again achieved the highest accolade - a 5-Star Registration Status from the National Portage Association (NPA).

This award recognises Dorset Council’s ongoing commitment to giving children with additional needs the best possible start in life.

The Best Start in Life offer provides tailored support for families and works closely with early years settings, health professionals, and schools. Delivered by dedicated advisors, the service ensures children receive personalised care that meets their individual needs. Developed with input from parent carers, the programme continues to evolve based on feedback, making sure it remains effective and responsive.

It’s a significant achievement for two of our our advisors to be accredited NPA trainers, and they can now deliver this training locally in Dorset to early years practitioners, partners and families. This recognition highlights Dorset Council’s focus on quality and consistency. Families benefit from regular home visits, practical advice, and strong links between home and early years settings. Advisors also help settings maintain high Ofsted standards, ensuring children thrive in safe and supportive environments.

Parents and carers have shared how much this support means to them:

• “Having professionals who know my child makes me feel safer - decisions are made in her best interest.”
• “Reports from advisors help us recognise changes we can make at home.”
• “Support has helped my child relax and engage more - especially in their own environment.”
• “Having someone who understands our setting and children makes a real difference.”
• “Support is more regular and targeted - we feel more confident in our practice.”
• “We’ve seen improvements in outcomes for children thanks to timely advice and funding support.”
• “Having one person support both home and setting creates continuity for families.”

These voices show the real impact of the Best Start in Life offer - from improving confidence in practice to creating continuity between home and settings, and even helping families access timely advice and funding support.

Councillor Clare Sutton, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said:

“Achieving this national 5-Star recognition for a second year is a clear demonstration of our leadership and ambition. We are determined to keep raising standards and delivering services that make a real difference to children and their futures.”

For more information, contact the Family Support and Advice Line on 01305 228558, e-mail beststartinlife@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, or visit the Best Start in Life page on the Dorset Council website.