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Latest Developments Across Early Learning, Workforce Support and Child Poverty Reform
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Early Learning and Childcare

The ELC team has recently refreshed its team offer to ensure it reflects the evolving needs and priorities of Scotland’s Early Learning and Childcare sector. As the policy and delivery landscape continues to develop, the team has taken the opportunity to clearly articulate how it supports the Scottish Government, local authorities and sector partners to strengthen, enable and assure high-quality, sustainable ELC services.

Central to the refreshed offer is the teams ongoing commitment to acting as a trusted critical friend to local authorities, providing constructive challenge, practical support and opportunities for shared learning. This updated offer provides greater clarity on the team’s area of focus and the support available to stakeholders as they respond to both current priorities and emerging challenges across the ELC sector.

Alternative Text Graphic showing four key areas of focus for the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) team, displayed as four teal panels with white icons and text. Data and Intelligence – Provides accessible, relevant data and insight to support evidence-based planning, decision-making and continuous improvement at strategic and operational levels. Improving Outcomes for Priority Groups – Supports local authorities to understand and address barriers to access and participation, helping improve outcomes for children and families who need it most. ELC Workforce – Supports local authorities to build a sustainable, skilled and confident workforce through data, shared learning and practical tools for recruitment, retention and workforce planning. Collaboration and Shared Learning – Facilitates opportunities to collaborate and learn, sharing good practice, peer insight and collective problem-solving across Scotland.

Workforce

Supporting new ELC leaders to thrive in Glasgow

This latest case study explores how Glasgow City Council, in partnership with the University of Glasgow, has developed an innovative mentoring programme to support colleagues. Discover how the programme is strengthening leadership, building confidence and supporting succession planning across the ELC workforce.

Fairer Futures Partnership

New briefings published by the Improvement Service are highlighting Glasgow’s pioneering work to tackle child poverty through public service reform.

Produced in partnership with the Glasgow Child Poverty Programme and the Scottish Government, the briefing series captures key learning from Glasgow’s ambitious city-wide initiative, which is testing new approaches to reducing child and family poverty through systemic change.

Child Poverty Data Information Session: Summary Report

This report summarises the Child Poverty Data Information Session held on Tuesday 19th May, bringing together colleagues from local authorities, the Scottish Government, the Improvement Service and partner organisations. The session explored how data can be used more effectively to understand need, identify families who may benefit from support, and improve outcomes for children and families experiencing or at risk of poverty. It highlights emerging national initiatives, opportunities for collaboration, and practical actions to support better data sharing and service delivery across Scotland.

Fairer Futures Partnerships Spotlight Session: No Wrong Door Approaches

This report summarises learning from the Fairer Futures Partnerships (FFP) Spotlight Session on No Wrong Door Approaches, held on Thursday 4th June 2026. It brings together reflections, examples of practice, and key learning shared by partners across Scotland, with particular insights from North Ayrshire and West Dunbartonshire.

The report highlights the importance of person-centred, joined-up support, strong partnership working, data sharing, and early intervention in ensuring people can access the right help at the right time. It also explores the opportunities and challenges involved in embedding a No Wrong Door approach and provides practical examples to support further learning and development across Fairer Futures Partnerships.