But CYP Now's exclusive survey reveals much of this is now at risk as local authorities prepare to take control in April. Ben Willis reports.
The mood among a large number of voluntary sector organisations providing children's services is bleak. They are bracing themselves for the Children's Fund's ringfencing being lifted in April when local authorities take control of the programme, which is aimed at organisations helping disadvantaged five- to 13-year-olds.
Many are unsure whether they will still be running projects for vulnerable children and families this time next year.
According to a survey run by CYP Now with the National Council of Voluntary Child Care Organisations (NCVCCO), 58 per cent of voluntary sector Children's Fund projects believe they are unlikely to continue beyond March. Thirty-eight per cent say they expect to issue redundancy letters before March. And 65 per cent of local authority Children's Fund managers say projects and services are likely to be decommissioned from March.
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
