Watch the Launch of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation

We are delighted to share the recording of the official launch of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, the UK’s only grant-giving charity exclusively dedicated to babies.

The launch took place online, bringing together hundreds of people from across the early years sector and beyond. While our original plans to hold the event in Parliament had to be rescheduled, moving the launch online allowed us to open the doors to many more participants from across the UK and internationally, a fantastic opportunity to broaden the conversation about why the first 1001 days of life matter so deeply.

At the event, our Founder and Executive Chair of Trustees, the Rt Hon Dame Andrea Leadsom, and our Patron, Lord David Blunkett, shared the Foundation’s bold vision: that every baby should experience the best start in life.

The first 1001 days, from pregnancy to age two, are a period of rapid development when the foundations for lifelong health, learning and wellbeing are laid. Yet too many parents and carers are not given the support they need at this most critical time. The Foundation exists to change that, through grant funding, pioneering research and global advocacy.

This inspiring launch marked the beginning of our journey. With the support of donors, partners and frontline charities, we have already pledged more than £2m in funding and are determined to ensure that babies everywhere experience the best start in life.

Watch the full launch on YouTube below.