Never Too Early

Abstract

There is now a broad consensus that earlier intervention is an effective tool in preventing crime. This government is investing over &1 billion in Sure Start in recognition that positive intervention in the first four years will give a child the best chance in life and will in the longer term achieve social and economic outcomes in the form of improved health, less crime, and a more skilled and educated workforce. Gordon Brown and Oliver Letwin are both on record in support of preventive intervention. The public and media, too, take the view that poor parenting and teenage motherhood are to blame for many of our social ills.