Decision delayed by Kent County Council over two children's centres

The decision, on the future of two children's centres in Kent, has been delayed.

Yesterday afternoon, Kent County Council was set confirm if it would remove it's funding for Seashells, in Sheerness, and Milmeads, in Margate.

However, after a near hour long debate, a recommendation was put forward by the cabinet committee for Children's, Young Person and Education.

It suggested that Sue Chandler, the cabinet member for Integrated Children's Services, should look at extending the contract for a few months, until the government confirms the exact amount of funding it will be giving children's services, as set out in the budget.

However, this recommendation doesn't have to be accepted, and is subject to the KCC confirming if it can legally extend it's contract with buildings and it's services.

Either way, Ian Townsend Blazier saw it as a win for Seashells, he said: "I don't think we were expecting that result today, it is a small victory and we live to fight another day.

"It's great the other members were in favour of the motion that was put forward and it gives us time to see what central government provides. Overall, i am pleased but we have still got a little way to go yet.

"Our Christmas lights didn't get turned off, so we carry on going. We are doing this for our community and our families so that's a positive message for them and that it's positive the council are listening to us and seeing the good work that we do. I'm happy at the moment."

Sue Chandler said: “Millmead and Seashells Family Hubs are the only two centres run by external providers in the county. Under the current contracts, KCC is paying for both the delivery of the service and the local management by the providers.

Following the introduction of our new Family Hub model across Kent last year, the management cost for these two commissioned services now creates a duplication as KCC is also paying for the management of its in-house services at KCC Family Hubs across the Districts of Swale and Thanet.

“By not renewing these contracts when they naturally come to an end in March 2025, we can make a much-needed efficiency saving whilst continuing to provide essential services for families and young people in these areas.

“I would like to thank everyone who has responded to our consultation with their views. I will now consider all feedback, from residents and Members and will make a final decision later this year.”