Children's Centres

Children's Centres are places where children under 5 years old and their families can receive services close to their home. Some children's centres will also provide services for older children.

The children's centre vision is universal , entitling all children and their families to services appropriate to their needs within 'pram pushing' distance of their homes. The hope is that Children's Centres will help to build stronger, better educated, more cohesive and healthier communities.

Children's Centres are open for a minimum of 10 hours a day, 5 days a week, and 48 weeks a year. They will provide a range of services which could include:

• Early learning and / or childcare for children under 5
• Links to extended schools, healthy Schools, out-of-school activities, holiday play schemes etc
• Links with local childminders
• Services for children with special needs, speech and language and other specialist support
• A visit to all families within two months of a child's birth
• Visits to families in their own home on request
• Information about family support services and activities
• Parenting support, advice and classes
• Help to increase the involvement of fathers
• Child development information
• Antenatal/ Midwifery /health visitor services including breast feeding support, hygiene, nutrition and safety
• Information on physical emotional and child health
• Help in stopping smoking
• Links with Jobcentre Plus, Further and Higher education institutions and other local training providers.
• Training for parents/carers
• Drop in sessions including parent groups, play groups, adult education