Lib Dems say proposals to close the majority of children centres across Ealing is shameful!

Ealing Lib Dems propose a cross-party approach and strengthened engagement with residents, families and campaigners.

Ealing Labour have ended a consultation to close 13 of the 24 existing children’s centres across the borough. Lib Dem Councillor Jonathan Oxley, newly elected in late 2024 is calling for a cross-party review of these changes.

There are a number of concerned parties including residents, families and campaigners who would like this approach looked at again. The consultation (now closed) seemed very light on supporting data about outcomes and is risking the best start for children across the borough.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Jonathan Oxley - Children Spokesperson (Education, Children's Services, Special Educational Needs, Fostering and Looked After Children) said: “The Liberal Democrats are concerned by these proposals being put forward by Ealing Labour. We would welcome the adoption of a cross-party approach that engaged political parties, residents, families and campaigners. We think these proposed Labour-run Ealing Council changes will touch the lives of many and as such warrants further engagement to ensure that unintended consequences and increased negative outcomes do not result.”

Save Ealing Children’s Centres Group member Clare Welsby said: “An invitation to all Councillors was sent on 25th April, signed by 30 local organisations and community groups including the National Education Union and schools: to connect – with Ealing’s Connected Communities Vision and achieve the Council’s aim of improving their Early Help offer: without closing or repurposing half of Ealing’s Children’s Centres. Repurposing will effectively close a children’s centre to current and future young children and their families and to vital and much valued children’s centre services in their local area. Dismantling services for the very youngest children and families goes against all the evidence that the early years are fundamental in giving all children the best start in life, and threatens their human rights to health, education and family life, risking increasing health and education inequalities. How can this improve early help to the families who may need it most? We need the Labour Leadership and decision makers to actively engage with us. A consultation was held (3rd February and 27th April 2025). However numerous concerns have been raised by this group as to the validity of this consultation.”