CREC is a charitable organisation established in 2007 and dedicated to raising the quality of early childhood provision in order to enhance the life chances of children. It does this through these four charitable 'objects':

• improving the visibility and prestige of work and research in the field of early childhood;
  
• undertaking research in this field;
  
• increasing awareness of diversity and social exclusion and promoting equity in the field;
• supporting professional development for those who work with young children.

CREC has an independent Board of Trustees and a governing document, a 'Declaration of Trust', which follows the guidelines of the Charity Commissioners for England and Wales. The Trustees appoint Directors to carry out the work of CREC. There are currently two Directors; Professor Christine Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram. CREC also has a small team who collaboratively fulfill the objects of the Trust.

CREC is located in the St Thomas Children's Centre, near the centre of the city and was a founding partner of this, integrated, multi-professional establishment. CREC is an integrated part of the Children's Centre which provides extended services for children, young people and families for Birmingham City Council. CREC's offices are partly subsidised by the City of Birmingham but it retains its independence.