A charity boss has called for Sure Start children’s centres to be protected by law with early years funding ring fenced.
Chief executive of 4Children, Anne Longfield, spoke after education minister Elizabeth Truss backed children’s centres during a hearing of the education committee.
One million families regularly use the centres, according to research by the charity.
Ms Longfield said: ‘The minister said that she will look again at the core purpose of children’s centres so we hope that this will present an opportunity to maximise their full potential, and ensure that they continue to deliver for children and families.
‘4Children believes that there is an opportunity for children’s centres to be placed at the heart of children and family services in local areas.
‘The evidence presented by Ms Truss reflects 4Children’s own research, which shows that children’s centres are making a hugely important difference to the lives of children and families across the country.’
