Recent government figures, issued after they were questioned on the issue, have brought to light that over 500 children’s centres across England have been closed since 2010 by local councils that have seen their funds diminish.
The main finding of a study conducted by the children’s charity Barnardo’s made public late last year shows that children’s centres funding has been halved in the last seven years.
Children’s centres are a vital public service for young families. Not only do they provide care for children but they organise family activities and provide much needed support and advice to parents. In a way, the support given by children’s centres contributes to nurture stable families.
Tracy Brabin, shadow early years minister, said after the government figures were provided: “These cuts are impacting the most disadvantaged. Children’s centres are supporting parents who are in difficulty, but also parents who struggle with their parenting skills.”
> Naomi Round
