The government has previously said that a consultation on the future of children's centres will launch this summer, as part of its life chances strategy.
But there are concerns that publication of the life chances strategy has been shelved in the wake of the EU referendum and subsequent resignation of Prime Minister David Cameron.
The petition, started by Hilda Tavolara, project co-ordinator at the GMB, calls on government to begin an urgent consultation on the future of Sure Start centres. The petition will run for six months until 3 December.
Colin Greer, GMB regional organiser, said: "The UK government needs to recognise the great work that sure start children's centres do to give children the best possible start in life.
"It's time these brutal budget cuts were reversed to make sure we're there for the people who need help the most.
"GMB supports this petition for consultation on Sure Start centres to ensure our children's futures are protected."
The Department for Education revealed in April that more than 1,000 children's centres have either been closed or downgraded since 2010. This followed figures gathered by CYP Now that showed an additional 400 children's centres were at risk from cuts or closures this year.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
