We Need to Bring Back Our Children’s Centres

by Councillor Fay Howard 

The number of children placed on a council watchlist over fears they have suffered neglect has jumped by 75 per cent over four years. 

Figures released this month by the Council show that 112 children were the subject of a child protection plan last year over fears they have been neglected – up from 64 in 2013/14. 

Several years ago the Council agreed to close all of its Children’s Centres which we warned would be a mistake and would cut off support to young families vulnerable to hitting a crisis. These statistics sadly have proved us right and we think justify the need to reintroduce Children’s Centres in Swindon. One of our pledges for the forthcoming Swindon council elections.