CYP Now - Opinion: Debate - Are children's centres just Sure Start on the cheap?

Children's minister Margaret Hodge has rejected criticism that the Government is only considering children's centres because they're cheaper than Sure Start, insisting they will allow it to roll out Sure Start across the country.

NO - GRAEME COOKE, POLICY AND PARLIAMENTARY OFFICER, 4CHILDREN

Children's centres and Sure Start programmes are based on the rationale that early interventions can have considerable benefits for children and families. But while Sure Start was a highly targeted initiative, funded from the centre and aimed at disadvantaged neighbourhoods, children's centres can serve all children in all communities. This is best done by engaging various providers, including schools, and the private and voluntary sector. So a different approach to funding and structure is inevitable.

YES - NORMAN GLASS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, NATIONAL CENTRE FOR SOCIAL RESEARCH, WHO WAS INVOLVED WITH THE LAUNCH OF SURE START

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