17 November 2006

Byrne promises SureStart at Children’s Centre opening

Liam Byrne MP today performed the official opening of the SureStart funded Children’s Centre in Ward End.

The centre, which is attached to Ward End Primary School, is for anybody with an interest in families with young children. It provides activities, services, courses and information from early education and day care for children to breastfeeding workshops and advice on entering the workforce for parents.

Liam said:

“I am delighted to open the centre today. The range of services on offer is fantastic and I really encourage as many people in the area to come along and take advantage. Parenting is the hardest job in the world and centres like this will help make the difference and give the kids in our area a flying start.”

He added:

“It’s easy to think you’re alone when you’re a new parent and you’ve had no sleep. But as well as all the help offered at centres like this, they are a great opportunity to meet other parents and extend your support network. We are getting these centres in the areas that need them most.”

Children’s Centres have begun springing up around the area but the Ward End centre is just part of the first phase of the programme which reaches the 20% most disadvantaged areas. The second phase, which will reach out to the 30% most disadvantaged areas, will see a significant extension of centres by 2008, with more and more involvement of local families.

Liam continued:

“One of the best opportunities of this Children’s Centre is the emphasis placed on parents and local communities getting directly involved in running the centre. I myself have a young family and I recognise that it is the parents of Hodge Hill who know best what is needed to make life better for their family. There is a massive contribution to be made and I wish the centre all the very best for a successful future.”

The Children’s Centre programme is based on the concept that providing integrated education with childcare, family support and health services are key factors in achieving good outcomes for children and parents.

• Click here for more information on this Children’s Centre or call 0121 322 0910
• The address of the centre is: Sure Start Children's Centre Saltley & Ward End, Centre 80, Anthony Road, Saltley, Birmingham B8 3AA
• For more information on the government’s SureStart programme please click here
• And for information on Children's Centres in the area see http://www.birmingham.childrencentres.org/ or the Birmingham City Council website