Fleur Anderson outside the Roehampton Family Hub
July 18, 2025
Young people and families in Roehampton could benefit from a major new national initiative aimed at tackling child poverty and improving access to local support services. The Better Futures Fund, a £500 million, ten-year programme, has been launched to support early intervention across the country, including through the creation of up to 1,000 Best Start Family Hubs in every local authority by 2028.
Locally, the Roehampton Family Hub, based at 166 Roehampton Lane, may see improvements as part of the expansion. The Hub currently provides a range of services to families and young people, including free early years activities, parenting and mental health support, youth programmes, digital skills training, and access to essentials in collaboration with local charities such as Little Village.
The fund is designed to support services that help improve school attendance, reduce reoffending, and offer mental health and employment support. It is expected to reach around 200,000 children and young people nationwide over the next decade and is backed by organisations including Save the Children UK and The King’s Trust.
Putney MP Fleur Anderson welcomed the potential benefits for the community.
She said, “I’ve seen the positive impact the Roehampton Family Hub has on local families. With this additional funding, services can expand to reach more children and young people who need early help and long-term support.”
In addition to the funding announcement, the government has confirmed it plans to introduce legislation to extend the right to vote to 16- and 17-year-olds in time for the next General Election. The change would mark a significant step toward greater youth participation in the democratic process.
“It’s a big moment for young people locally,” said Ms Anderson. “They’ll not only have access to more support through initiatives like the Family Hub, but also gain a direct voice in shaping the future.”
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