European Platform for Investing in Children (EPIC)

Icons of men, women and children, standing together in small groups

The European Platform for Investing in Children (EPIC) is an evidence-based online platform that provides information about policies that can help children and their families face the challenges that exist in the current economic climate in Europe.

Helping to implement the Recommendation for Investing in Children

EPIC helps Member States implementing the Recommendation for Investing in Children and is a tool for monitoring activities triggered by the Recommendation. It is also a platform for sharing the best of policymaking for children and families and to foster cooperation and mutual learning in the field.

EPIC is be used to collect and disseminate innovative and evidence-based practices that have a positive impact on children and families in EU Member States. Evidence-based practices that have demonstrated effectiveness through rigorous research are made available in the Practices that work section.

EPIC also participates in seminars and workshops around the EU on strategies for improving outcomes for children and families.

Recommendation for Investing in Children

In February 2013, the European Commission adopted the Recommendation ‘Investing in Children—breaking the cycle of disadvantage’ as part of the Social Investment Package.

The Recommendation provides guidance for EU Member States on how to tackle child poverty and social exclusion through measures such as

family support and benefits,
quality childcare
early-childhood education.

Member States' integrated strategies should be developed according to three key pillars:

Social investment in individual capacities during the early years is particularly beneficial for children from a disadvantaged background and can provide large social returns. They are also a crucial factor in breaking cycles of intergenerational transmission of poverty.

EPIC produces an occasional electronic newsletter intended for anyone with an interest in policies that can help children and their families face up to the challenges of the current economic climate.