England

Interesting idea to put all a child's needs under one roof.

Publisher:
Keith Hall
Published: 20/02/2006

Multi-million boost for child care in Liverpool

Multi-million pound plans have been approved for eight new Children's Centres in the most disadvantaged parts of Liverpool.

Over £5 million is to be spent across the city on facilities in Anfield, Croxteth, County, Tuebrook/Stoneycroft, Knotty Ash, West Derby, Allerton/Hunts Cross and Belle Vale.

These will offer a wide range of services for families under one roof, including child care, health and parental support, as well as advice on training and employment.

The eight new centres are in addition to the 16 first phase Children's Centres funded as part of the National Childcare Strategy by Sure Start.

Councillor Jan Clein, assistant executive member for children's services, claims Merseyside is crying out for the extra facilities.

"Children's Centres are a lifeline for parents and carers who have young children.

"This one-stop shop approach to childcare is much more convenient and means they no longer have to go to separate locations to access different services.

"By 2008 we will have a network of 24 children's centres across the city serving more than 20,000 youngsters and their families."

Consultation is currently underway on identifying suitable sites for the Children's Centres. Where possible they will be linked to a primary school or nursery to link in with existing childcare provision.

The Executive Board of the city council today approved a report giving the second phase the go ahead.