Just before the new year Local Authorities were invited to express interest in two impact economy opportunities, one being the Match Fund.

The Match Fund’s aim is to expand local system capacity and amplify impact on early years outcomes through matching a portion of the BSFL delivery funding with external funding. This provides the opportunity to engage with a ‘backbone’ organisation, who will provide expertise in building and scaling collaborative partnerships and implementing impact models.

We are proud to be featured as a case study sent as part of the guidance, as one of the backbone organisations able to provide specialist guidance in delivering systems change and service transformation.

Described by the Department for Education as a ‘backbone organisation’, we’ve long referred to it as the ‘Engine Room’ of local partnership working — a vital force in building early years systems that truly deliver for babies, children and families.

The Better Start Engine Room has existed in Blackpool for over a decade, actively driving innovation, delivery and the system change needed to transform outcomes. It has brought together insight, evidence and lived experience to fuel strategic direction, mobilise resources and maintain momentum. This proven model has been central to Blackpool’s success in transforming local systems and improving the lives of families.

We were happy to support a number of local authorities with their expression of interest, we’re passionate about sharing what works and helping you drive real, lasting change in your area.

As new details emerge and the Match Fund opportunity moves into the next phase, if you have questions about our involvement in this opportunity, how we could help, or our experience in transforming early years systems, please get in touch for an informal conversation.

Read the Impact Economy case studies here