Sure Start needs greater commitment from national and local government

Commenting on the release of the Public Accounts Committee report on Sure Start Children’s Centres, Kate Green, Chief Executive of Child Poverty Action Group said:

“We welcome the Committee’s report, which recognises the importance and future potential of Sure Start centres, but is realistic about the commitment needed by both local and national government for them to be as successful as possible.

“Children at greatest risk of poverty, such as those from ethnic minority communities and disabled children, have most to gain from access to Sure Start services. Money invested to support them now will pay dividends in the future. Children’s Centres must develop clear and measurable strategies to identify and reach those families most at risk of poverty.

“Local Authorities have an important part to play in meeting the Government’s commitment to end child poverty in their local area. The ambitious roll-out of Sure Start will require sufficient investment from central government for Local Authorities to deliver services successfully. Only with a clear staff recruitment and training strategy and targeted resources can Local Authorities deliver good quality services that focus on reaching out to the most marginalised groups.”

Notes to Editors

• CPAG is a member of the Campaign to End Child Poverty
• The Government initially targeted the Sure Start initiative at the 20 per cent most disadvantaged areas, but Child Poverty Action Group called for it to be available across the country because nearly half (46 per cent) of children living in poverty, were living in pockets of deprivation in more affluent areas.

For further information please contact:
Tim Nichols
CPAG Press Officer
Tel. 020 7812 5216 or 07816 909302
tnichols@cpag.org.uk