Wyndham has received State Government funding of $200,000 per year for four years to develop and implement Best Start programs.
Wyndham’s Best Start Project will provide resources and/or funding for a diverse range of small and large scale projects. Examples of local projects funded through Best Start programs in other municipalities are literacy programs for kindergarten children, physical activity packages for early primary and kindergarten children and Smoke Free projects.
Best Start aims to improve the health, development, learning and well-being of all children from pregnancy to eight years. This is achieved through a partnership approach with Council, local agencies and community stakeholders.
The Partnership Group that has been formed includes a broad range of government agencies and other key stakeholders such as local schools, large and small support agencies, the Mercy Hospital, user groups and parent bodies.
Research indicates that the early years are critical in improving the health and well-being of children in later life. Best Start programs act as a preventative and early intervention measure for all children.
Outcomes from Best Start projects include improvements in the development and delivery of local services that impact on children and their families.
The Wyndham Best Start Partnership outcomes:
- Increased rates of breastfeeding
- Decreased absences from primary school
- Improved reading, writing and numeracy
- Reduced proportion of children whose parents report high levels of social support
Wyndham is looking for parents and professionals who are interested in joining working groups which will discuss ways Wyndham Best Start can achieve these outcomes. Each working group meets bi monthly.
For more information about Wyndham’s Best Start Program or if you would like to be part of a work group, contact Leonie O'Malley, Best Start Coordinator on 8742 8159.