Council launches survey over closure of multiple children's centres in Luton

Luton Borough Council has launched a survey as it prepares £3.2m in cuts to children’s services in the town.
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The cuts follow the emergency budget approved by councillors on July 14, which will see £22.5m cuts to services overall in the town.

The council plans to close multiple children’s centres, including:

> Flying Start Central Children’s Centres, located at Denbigh Infants School and Stopsley Baptist Church;

Multiple children's centres are set to close in LutonMultiple children's centres are set to close in Luton
Multiple children's centres are set to close in Luton

> Flying Start North Children’s Centres, located at Limbury Community Centre, Redgrave Gardens and Gill Blowers Nursery, Leabank;

> Flying Start South Children’s Centres, located at Park Town, Whipperley and The Mall;

> Flying Start West Children’s Centres, located at Dallow, Pastures Way Nursery, Foxdell, Beechwood, Mossdale Court, Leagrave and Chaul End Community Centre;

Services such as ‘stay and play’ that everyone can use at the children’s centres will gradually be reduced starting from February 2021 and will cease from April 30 next year.

The council has launched a consultation until September 20, asking parents, staff and members of the public for their feedback on the proposed changes.

Councillor Mahmood Hussain, portfolio holder for children’s services, said: “It is with a very heavy heart that we are being forced to make such tough decisions.

“But, with very limited finances, we must ensure that the money we spend and the resources available are used in the most effective way.

“Our proposal will allow us to continue to help the most vulnerable children, young people and families within our communities who are facing the most complex and significant challenges.

“However, we want to hear your views on how our proposals would affect you accessing the support you need. Your feedback is very important to us and will help us shape the new service, so please do complete a survey.

“We will explore how we could join up our proposed new service with the support they offer to vulnerable families.”

To complete an online survey, visit www.engage.luton.gov.uk before September 20.

Alternatively, you can request a paper copy by emailing [email protected] or calling 01582 546939. Return your questionnaire (no stamp required) to Freepost LUTON BOROUGH COUNCIL, IFRS consultation, before September 20.