Memorandum submitted by Heavitree & Polsloe Children's Centre parent forum in Exeter

 

How models of Children's Centres have developed as the programme spreads from the most deprived neighbourhoods;

· challenges around parents expectations of a children's centre because of knowledge of existing local programs, but reality of what they get is something different - watered down service

 

The range and effectiveness of services provided by Children's Centres;

· lots of existing toddler groups & Health clinic - Children's centre tagging alongside- -trying to link by providing info - funding from CC to support existing groups. Sure start in this area has a background support role and some targeted (referrals)

· Parents don't see sure start as frontline delivery in this area

 

Funding, sustainability and value for money;

· Funding has been helpful to maintain local groups I.e refresh toy cupboard, bringing added value

 

Staffing, governance, management and strategic planning;

· volunteers in local groups & worker within local groups. CC staff running new baby group at health clinic - this a response of parents requests

 

How well Children's Centres work with other partners and services, especially schools and health services;

· Health - really stretched, limited time to see parents, worry that parents wont get support they may need

· Schools - good relationships with schools, CC work in partnership with schools to deliver community groups for under 5's in the area

 

 

 

Whether services are being accessed by those most in need and how effective they are for the most vulnerable.

· Some referrals through Health & link with schools, lower level of deprivation in this area, but still danger of families being missed if they don't access service

October 2009