Opinion: Soapbox - Sure Start is delivering early intervention

12 September 2006 1 min read Anne Heaven

As a researcher working with children, young people and their families, I was outraged at the recent comments made by Tony Blair regarding identifying young and unborn children thought likely to end up in severe poverty or committing crime later in life (Children Now, 6-12 September).

Let's be clear about this. Some might see the Prime Minister's proposalsas a throwback to the eugenics programmes of Nazi Germany or even theless well-known schemes in North America and Sweden.

I wouldn't go that far. But sparking yet another crusade againstso-called "problem children" suggests he is woefully ignorant of theefforts already being made to give our children a positive start inlife.

We have worked with Sure Starts and early years departments across theUK for years and can testify to the tremendous work they do in helpingchildren, young people and their families flourish in extremely tryingcircumstances.

While Blair is busy touting his plans for social reform, Sure Startlocal programmes quietly continue to deliver early intervention andsocial support to families who need and welcome it.

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