When it comes to reform uk’s ‘pro-family’ policies are an exclusionary sham, minister says, in a pointed critique of Reform UK, the government's early years minister, Olivia Bailey, labeled the party's so-called "pro-family" policies as exclusionary and misleading. This statement comes just ahead of the launch of hundreds of new family centres across England, aimed at supporting diverse family structures. The rollout begins on Monday, with Bailey emphasizing the need for inclusivity in these new hubs, which will provide essential services to all families, especially in light of the dismantling of Sure Start programs under previous Conservative administrations.
Bailey, who is an equalities minister and an adoptive parent, expressed concern about the implications of a potential Reform government on gender equality and LGBTQ+ family rights. "I do worry about Reform," she stated, asserting that their claims of being a champion for families are hollow. "They say they support families, but I don't think they support families like mine." Bailey's comments underscore a growing alarm among advocates for diverse family structures regarding the direction of Reform UK's policies. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Understanding Reform UK’s ‘pro-family’ Policies Are An Exclusionary Sham, Minister Says
Bailey pointed out controversial statements made by key figures within Reform UK, such as James Orr, a rightwing theologian known for his anti-abortion stance, and MP Danny Kruger, who has made inflammatory remarks about the sexual economy in the UK. She noted that the party's plans to repeal the Equality Act would have far-reaching consequences. "They are not the party that is going to stand up for families like mine, for families of all different shapes and sizes," she warned, highlighting fears that such moves could roll back hard-won rights for women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
This rhetoric puts Bailey at odds with Reform UK's self-proclaimed image as a family-oriented party. Her comments reflect a broader concern that the party's policies could further marginalize already vulnerable communities. As the launch of the new family hubs approaches, Bailey's emphasis on inclusivity stands in stark contrast to Reform UK's agenda.
The Role of New Family Hubs in Community Support
Speaking at the Harmood family hub in Camden, Bailey outlined the transformative potential of the new Best Start family hubs, which are designed to provide a one-stop-shop for parents seeking services like childcare, health advice, and parenting support. These hubs are a cornerstone of the government's nearly £1 billion investment in early years support, with £500 million specifically allocated for their establishment. Bailey described the hubs as vital for rebuilding community connections that have frayed in the wake of Sure Start's decline.
"Sure Start is one of our proudest achievements as a Labour party," Bailey asserted, contrasting the current initiative with the dismantling of 1,400 Sure Start centres that took place after 2010. A study from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) indicated that children who grew up near Sure Start centres performed better academically and had fewer health issues. "It was absolutely criminal what the Conservatives did to Sure Start. It gutted the heart out of communities across the country," Bailey lamented.
Focus on Early Childhood Development
The launch of the new hubs coincides with growing concerns regarding early childhood development in the UK. A recent survey revealed that approximately one in four children starting reception in 2025 are not toilet trained, prompting the government to establish targets aimed at improving developmental standards. Currently, only 68.3% of children meet the government's criteria for being school-ready, with a target of achieving 75% by 2028.
To support children with special educational needs, the government has allocated £200 million to ensure each hub has a family-facing SEND practitioner. Bailey emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating, "If you get that help with speech and language, or whatever it may be, to children early, it reduces the need for a SEND diagnosis further down the track." This proactive approach aims to enhance the overall quality of early childhood education and support for families across England.
As the government prepares for the rollout of these family hubs, Bailey's commitment to inclusivity signals a clear intention to support all families. Her own experience as an adoptive parent in an LGBT family informs her desire to see every parent feel a sense of belonging within their community. "I want that for everyone," she concluded, reflecting her hope that the new hubs will foster a supportive environment for all families.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.