It is possible to break the cycle of abuse and poor parenting that blights a minority of families in our communities. Pregnancy and the first year of a baby's life offer a critical window of opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to vulnerable children's lives.
The NSPCC's Strategy to 2016 has early intervention at its heart. There is a compelling rationale for focusing on pregnancy and the first year as a key priority in our mission to end cruelty to children. Maltreatment of babies is particularly shocking, both because of the relative frequency with which it occurs (for example, 45 per cent of Serious Case Reviews relate to under-ones), but also because of the babies' total vulnerability and dependence.
The first year of a baby's life is a period of rapid brain development. We know that responsive parenting and secure attachment are critical in helping babies to thrive. Sadly, where children are exposed to complex family problems, maltreatment and neglect, the consequences can be devastating, leaving their imprint well into adolescence and adulthood.
There is some good news. A growing body of evidence is showing that early interventions can make a difference to outcomes for vulnerable families. And of course, pregnancy is a 'magic moment' when most parents are particularly receptive to support, motivated by the desire to do the best for their child.
The NSPCC is committed to working with other agencies to help turn the rhetoric of early intervention into real change on the ground. We will be focusing energies and resources to help build the evidence base about what can make most difference to families during this critical life stage. We know this is intensive and demanding work, but we believe the challenges can be surmounted with collective will and determination.
Practitioners with any concerns about the safety and protection of a child can talk their worries through on the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.
