Page 17 - link magazine

Headteachers try to protect most vulnerable LittLe Foxes ChiLdCare
families from council budget cuts
Swindon Council's cabinet, considering proposals for its 2013-14 budget & eduCation
is looking to slash £380,000 over two years from children’s centres. FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS
Established 1986
The plan was to reduce staff man- viable and would not meet the objec- The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts
agement costs by putting 14 children’s tives of delivering the social benefits Tel: 01666 510356
centres across the town which are run children’s centres currently achieve Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042
by primary schools, academies and with the most vulnerable families in l An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe,
charities into just four clusters. Swindon. secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of
school club for children aged 5-11 years
The proposal caused consterna- However councillor David Renard, l Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year
tion amongst the heads and staff of cabinet member for children's service, l Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for
the children’s centres who fear that denies there would be a loss of service 3-5 year olds
families, reeling under the impact of but would like the heads of centres to l High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching
changes in welfare benefits, will suf- come up with alternative ideas. “The staff and nursery nurses
l Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room,
fer. Currently the children’s centres original proposal is now half-on and school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about
are managed as separate entities by half-off the table,” he said.
teams who build close relationships Abbey Meads Primary School
with families in the geographical areas headteacher Bob Buckley welcomed The Springboard to
they serve. the opportunity to have further
Representing heads of the differ- discussions. “We are pleased that the Confidence for your child
ent centres at the December cabinet cabinet have agreed to work closely
meeting, headteacher Nick Capstick with the heads of service in each loca- Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme
for children from 6 months to 7 years.
told councillors that the clustering tion to ensure the best protection of Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing,
proposal is not ethically or financially our most vulnerable families.” co-ordination appropriate to his or her age.
Structured programmes designed to build
self confidence and develop essential
Lion ladies boost Hop, Skip & Jump funds listening and language skills.
Wives and partners of Swindon Lion members were busy during 2012 Supervised by trained staff in a fun and
caring environment.
raising money for charity at monthly coffee mornings. Tumble Tots now in your area!
For information about local centres call
Liz Davies
on 0844 800 0219

Salt Way Children’s Centre
Pearl Road, Middleleaze
Swindon SN5 5TD
Tel: 01793 465364
Have you a child/children
under the age of 5?
Yes – then come along and see what your local Children’s
Centre has to offer you and your child/children at the
Michael Lowe, with Lions president Thelma Potts, right, and Nina Mitchell Multicultural Community Event
They chose to support the respite for 48 years and welcomes men and Thursday 21st February, 10am to 2.30pm
centre for children with severe dis- women to its meetings on the first Broadgreen Centre, Salisbury Street, SN1 2AN
abilities at Upper Shaw Farm after one and third Monday of the month at Refreshments provided
of the ladies heard about the work of the DeVere Village at Shaw Ridge.
Hop, Skip and Jump. Members organise the big fire- Workshops for Parents
Swindon Lions chair Thelma work’s display at the Polo Ground Relaxed, friendly and informal
Potts, presenting a cheque for £228 in November, Christmas collections To be held at Salt Way CC. Creche provided.
to Hop, Skip and Jump manager and several smaller fundraising events Tears and Tantrums
Michael Lowe, said: “Lions are all during the year, and also enjoy social Helping your Child’s Positive Behaviour
about working for the community activities. Wednesday 20th February and 6th March
and raising money for good causes. To find out more call Alan Mitchell 10am to 11am
The wives and partners group get on 01793 642898. Let’s Play - Helping your Child to Learn Through Play
together independently and choose Hop Skip and Jump are always keen Wednesday 17th April, 10am to 11am
their own charity to support. to hear from groups, businesses and Call Salt Way CC for further information
“Swindon Lions would also re- individuals interested in supporting or to book your place
ally like to hear from readers who their work with children. Find out
would like to join the branch and get more by contacting Michael Lowe, See our activities timetable
involved in our fundraising efforts centre supervisor: supervisor.swin- at www.childrenssociety.org.uk/saltwaycc
throughout the year.” [email protected] or
The branch has been in existence call 01793 977175 or 07557 435012.
swindonlink.com • February 2013 17

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