New scheme to boost children's services
COUNTY leaders have given the go ahead to a three year scheme to reform children's services in Suffolk. The plan includes the development of 34 children's centres by 2008, which will provide a one stop shop for information and access to a raft of services for parents and children such as health and parenting advice.
COUNTY leaders have given the go ahead to a three year scheme to reform children's services in Suffolk.
The plan includes the development of 34 children's centres by 2008, which will provide a one stop shop for information and access to a raft of services for parents and children such as health and parenting advice.
The centres, located in a number of locations including village halls, community centres, and schools, are set to cost about £4m.
At a meeting yesterday of Suffolk County Council's cabinet councillors approved the Suffolk Children and Young People's (CYP) Plan 2006-2009.
Patricia O'Brien, county councillor with responsibility for children and young people, said: “This is an excellent plan. It is concise and sets out clearly the delivery of all services for children and young people in Suffolk.
“The plan is in two parts-the strategic priorities and the changes needed to carry out the strategy.”
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The scheme is designed to bring together a number of organisations with responsibility for children and youngsters including the police, the local education authority, health, the learning and skills council, and district councils.
Three area directors have already been appointed to oversee the development of the plan.
The scheme plans to develop a safeguarding children board in the county, and proposals to integrate services to protect vulnerable young people.
There will also be a schools forum in the county as well as extended schools and a children's university which will provide extra learning outside normal school hours.
Mrs O'Brien added: “We are confident the different agencies will deliver on their responsibilities. We are improving the achievements of children and now these services have been brought together we can make sure children have the best they can.”
for more information visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/councilanddemocracy/suffolkcountycouncildirectorates/childrenandyoungpeople
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