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Sharp fall in nursery places for Westminster's children in need

1 min read Early Years Nurseries
The number of nursery places for children in need in Westminster has been dramatically cut, according to latest figures.

Statistics released by Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, leader of the council’s Labour group, show that from October this year just 20 places will be available, compared to 103 in 2006/7.

The figures also show that as of April this year there are just 40 places available for children in need, defined as those whose families are being supported by social workers.

Dimoldenberg accepts that central government cuts are the main cause, but believes Westminster City Council could do more to divert funding from back office functions such as PR and communications to frontline services.

He added: "Once again, it is the most vulnerable residents who are bearing the brunt of this major cut in frontline services. The cuts are too fast and too deep and they are having an immediate negative impact on those who need the services the most.

"These are heartless cuts that take no account of their impact on families, on relationships and on the community."

Dimoldenberg has also released figures for uptake of holiday scheme places after higher charges were introduced earlier this year.

He said that just 186 children attended schemes during the Easter holiday this year, compared to 306 during 2010’s Easter break.

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