Frequently Asked Questions

What is a children's centre?

Children's Centres have been conceived from the 'Every Child Matters' framework which aims at getting local services to work more closely together to be able to better support families. We can do this by:

• welcoming other agencies, such as Health Visitors, into our premises to make their services more accessible;
• offering a place for people with young families to meet, play and learn;
• making advice and support available on a wide range of issues affecting the family.

What goes on?

We offer activity sessions such as 'Play and Stay' when parents and carers bring their young charges to play and make friends with others in our multipurpose room or garden. We have a range of facilities and resources available for adults and children.

Who can go there?

The Children's Centre is for all families with young children in the area and we will be offering support and advice on the whole range of issues that affect families. Some of our sessions will be aimed at particular groups of people - young mums, those with new babies, dad's looking after their children at the weekend - and there will also be times when there is no session running but you are welcome to drop in and chat over a cup of tea in a quiet and calm environment.

Can I leave my child there?

We do not offer a childcare facility - your children are your responsibility whilst on the premises. However, occasionally a course may be offered with a creche facility provided. These details will be given at the time the course is advertised.

How much does it cost?

We aim to be accessible to as many people as possible but in order to be sustainable we need to have some income! We  therefore request donations of £1 per session during the week and £2 at weekends when toasties are on offer! We have a donations box where you can place all contributions but no-one will be turned away for not contributing.

Can I bring older children?

Generally our sessions will be for children under 5 years as that is what our equipment and resources are geared to, but keep checking our programme as something may come up where we will welcome older children. During school holiday time and at weekends we welcome children up to the age of eight but please bear in mind that  the majority of our resources are aimed at under fives.

What is the 'Every Child Matters' framework?

This is a framework drawn together after Government research. It identified 5 outcomes that were most important to the development, well being and potential of children and young people . They are to:

• Be healthy
• Stay safe
• Enjoy and achieve
• Make a positive contribution
• Achieve economic well being

All services now work together to improve these outcomes for all children and young people with the long term aim of eliminating poverty and securing a brighter future for everyone.