Who we are
A rare blend of public health, early years and creative engagement expertise, underpinned by two decades of senior leadership.
Childhood is precious, and it matters right now
Founded by Louise Harrington and Lucy Williams, Childhood is Now was born out of a shared belief that childhood is precious and matters greatly, not just for the future it promises, but for the lives young children are living right now.
We bring together a unique combination of public health, early years and creative engagement expertise, underpinned by significant senior leadership experience. For the last two decades, we have worked across the early years system including within national charities, local government and the NHS.
Time and time again, we have seen the same pattern: strong evidence, committed practitioners and clear policy intent, but systems struggling to join up, listen deeply to families, or turn ambition into lasting change. Childhood is Now bridges this gap.
Meet the founders
Two founders, working hands-on with every client.
Louise Harrington
Co-Founder
Louise is a senior public health and system transformation leader with over 20 years' experience working to improve outcomes for babies, children and young people, with a particular focus on babies and children under 5 facing disadvantage. She provides strategic leadership within a local authority and brings expertise in health inequalities, service design, evaluation and co-production, grounded in evidence and real-world delivery.
louiseharrington@childhoodisnow.co.ukRead full biography
Lucy Williams
Co-Founder
Lucy is an independent consultant, accredited coach, and early years specialist with more than 20 years' experience leading national programmes in children's charities. She designs evidence-informed programmes that support parents of young children, with a particular focus on supporting families experiencing disadvantage. Lucy works with Family Hubs, local authorities, and charities to improve services and share best practice. She brings expertise in listening to children.
lucywilliams@childhoodisnow.co.ukRead full biographyWhat we stand for
Equality First
Every baby and young child deserves a fair start.
We tackle inequalities by helping to design inclusive systems and programmes that prioritise those most at risk of being left behind.
Evidence that Matters
Proving and improving for real-world impact.
We are data-driven, combining lived and learned insights with research and data to create measurable, lasting change.
Connect and Collaborate
Breaking down silos to build stronger early years systems.
We bring together multi-sector partners with families and practitioners to co-create solutions that are practical, inclusive, and sustainable.
Listen to Young Voices
The voices of babies and young children bring unique perspectives.
We apply the principles of the Mosaic approach to better understand children's needs and perspectives, creatively informing local decisions.
Want to work with us?
We're happy to have an exploratory conversation before anything formal.