On Tuesday I visited the children’s centre in New Romney with Cllr Jenny Whittle, the cabinet member for children’s services on Kent County Council. We were met by the manager Sandi Mortimer, and had the chance to discuss its work with the parents who use it. I’d asked Jenny Whittle to join me in visiting all three of the centres in our district that are under threat in the county council’s review of children’s centres. This she has done, and it has given her the opportunity to see how well used they are and the big difference they make to families who need their support. I believe that whilst the County Council might have to look at how money can be saved in the running of children’s centres, it is vital that the centres in New Romney and Folkestone which are under threat remain open as a resource for the whole community.
Following our visit in New Romney I went on to the Lydd’lle Stars children’s centre in Lydd. Whilst this is not threatened with closure, clearly the loss of other local centres will have an impact on the ones that remain open. The County Council has to consider whether the centre in Lydd could cope with the demand, if the one in New Romney were to close. Again, my concern is that it would not, just as it would be difficult for the children’s centres in Folkestone to cope if one of them were to close. The consultation on the future of children’s centres in Kent ends on 4th October, and if you could be affected by it, it’s important that you have your say in the official process. You can do this by filling out the consultation forms which can be found on the Kent County Council website, or ask the staff at the children’s centres who will be able to help you.