SureStart under threat

 

Tories plan to cut all but a few children's centres

The Conservatives have revealed that they want to close thousands of SureStart Centres. SureStart is a successful Labour Government programme providing support to families with children under school age. The first phases were put in places with high levels of deprivation and unmet need but all areas should have a centre by the end of 2010. 

Sheffield has more than 30 SureStart Centres, six of which serve people living in Sheffield Central. They offer a range of services including access to integrated childcare and education, health and family support, help with finding jobs and training, drop-in sessions and groups.  Children’s Centres bring services closer to families and put them all in one area, so it’s easier for them to get the services, advice, help and information they need all in one go. 

Paul Blomfield, Labours Parliamentary Candidate for Sheffield Central says

"Closing SureStart Centres is just another reason why a Tory Government would be a disaster for Sheffield. Labour will protect SureStart and continue to provide free part-time early years education for local families".