Our impact

View case studies Impact July 23 - June 24

What change looks like for children and families

Across the places we work, Thrive at Five supports families and local partners to create the conditions children need to thrive. Our impact is seen in children’s development, parents’ confidence, and stronger early years systems working together around families.

Stoke-on-Trent

Good Level of Development scores have improved in Stoke-on-Trent

Finalised EYFS data shows an improvement in the proportion of children reaching a Good Level of Development in Stoke-on-Trent. This reflects sustained, place-based work with families and partners to strengthen early years support over time.

19% reduction in severe language delay

62% increase in children whose language skills were not a cause for concern

5x increase in parent, baby and toddler groups

700+ organisations and professionals

Redcar & Cleveland

Implementation in Redcar & Cleveland is at an early stage, but our independent evaluation from the Centre for Evidence and Implementation has shown there is evidence of stronger relationships across organisations, improved understanding of available services, new partnerships developing as well as engagement with parents who have been distant from services.

1,792 parents engaged

17 week perinatal mental health campaign

"It has been amazing having the Thrive at Five team supporting the group and providing our parents with advice and guidance to support their babies. It's been incredibly beneficial."

Volunteer/parent, Parent, baby, toddler group

"Thrive at Five has been a lifeline to me, I wouldn't be the outgoing, confident mum I am today without the support of Parent Connectors."

Redcar & Cleveland parent

"All services have been trying to get it right for parents and that is where Thrive at Five comes in to give us the time and space to support families."

Graeme Nicholson, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council

How we evaluate and learn

Data and evidence guides our work

Data and evidence are embedded throughout everything we do. Each programme begins with a discovery phase, working with local partners to analyse need, map existing assets and engage families. We use data throughout delivery to inform decision-making, strengthen practice and support continuous improvement.

How we are independently evaluated

Our approach is externally evaluated by the Centre for Evidence and Implementation, with support from the Nuffield Foundation. In England, one of the ways we measure progress is through the proportion of children reaching a Good Level of Development at age five, alongside other local indicators and qualitative insight.