Changes to vulnerable children's services up for consultation in West Sussex
The plans include closing more than 30 physical centres in the county
A consultation on changing early help services for vulnerable children is now underway in West Sussex.
Under the proposals, laid out by West Sussex County Council earlier this year, 32 of the county's 43 children and family centres would be closed amid a switch to home visits and practical support.
Early Help staff work with children and families who are facing any number of challenging circumstances and help ensure every child has a safe environment in which to thrive.
The County Council has said that demand on services is increasing, and that the changes will allow them to improve how support is delivered 'at the right time, in the right way.'
They've also said the changes to services would enable staff to work more closely with schools.
A West Sussex County Council spokesperson said:
"Traditionally some of our Early Help services have been delivered from a number of buildings, but a review has shown that most people who need our services the most do not access them here.
"We have also seen that during the pandemic, when these centres have been mostly closed, our staff have found new ways of reaching out to families who need our help.
But the changes have come under scrutiny from opposition figures on the council, with both Labour and the Liberal Democrats asking for plans to be halted.
The proposals would also include merging 12 Find it Out centres with the remaining 11 Children & Family Centres, maintaining a youth drop-in service at each.
A ten-week consultation opened on Monday (March 8th) and will close on May 17th.
Briefing events are being held online throughout March and April, which are open to everyone, giving an opportunity to hear directly from senior staff.
Jacquie Russell, West Sussex County Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
“The Early Help Service is an important part of our work to support children and families. So it is really important that we hear a wide range of views through the consultation and I strongly encourage as many people as possible to take part.
“We are committed to putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do. These proposals aim to enhance our Early Help service, targeting it where it is needed the most, reaching those families who are experiencing particularly difficult situations.”
To take part in the consultation, visit the West Sussex County Council website.
If you are unable to access the consultation online please contact 01243 777807 and a paper copy will be sent out on request.