4Children responds to figures on Children's Centre budgets

Responding to Barnardos calculations revealing a budget decrease of over 35% for children’s centres since 2010, 4Children’s Director of External Affairs, Helen Berresford, said:

“These figures are cause for concern for the great number of families who rely on the services and support provided by Children’s Centres across the country.

“Reducing early support for children is a false economy. Evidence shows that intervening early can stop problems from escalating and help prevent families falling into crisis.  

“The existing network of Children’s Centres can transform the way we support families today – tried, trusted and at the heart of communities, centres can bring professionals and services together and act as a one-stop-shop for families in need of help. We should be looking at how we get the most out of our Children’s Centres – helping them to fulfil their huge potential.

“Stronger families mean a stronger economy and investing in them makes social and economic sense.”

Notes to editors

For further information or to request an interview, please contact:

Ellie Gellard on 020 7522 6985 or Ellie.Gellard@4Children.org.uk

4Children is the national charity all about children and families. We have spearheaded a joined-up, integrated approach to children’s services and work with a wide range of partners around the country to ensure children and families have access to the services and support they need in their communities. We run Sure Start Children’s Centres as well as family and youth services across Britain. www.4Children.org.uk.

ENDS

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