While the alliance welcomed last week's spending announcements for more children's centres in 2006 to 2008 (Children Now, 13-19 April), it said it was vital cash was channelled into new provision that did not clash with what was already there.
And chief executive Steve Alexander said local authorities must adopt a more collaborative approach to commissioning in order to meet the Government's target of 2,500 children's centres by 2008, and 3,500 by 2010. "There is a control culture that has been developed around commissioning, which, I have to say, does not really reflect collaborative working," he said.
He said the alliance, which will run 28 neighbourhood nurseries, 14 of which have been designated as children's centres, had been forced to pay out for delays on a contract after a building project hit unforeseen difficulties.
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
