Why do the Tories dogmatically oppose Sure Start?

6th June, 2019

In my previous career working to end domestic violence, I saw how Sure Start centres can be a vital place for young families to get the support they need, from help with childcare to health, from employment advice to parenting support. They are also a safe place to get help with domestic violence, in a place which has no stigma attached to it and is based in the community. So it is particularly tragic that their budgets have been cut by two thirds by the Tory government, forcing many of the centres to close or cut back their services.

I raised these frustrations with the minister yesterday. I was disappointed that she fails to acknowledge the benefits of this flagship Labour policy. It’s not just me saying this. A study published this week by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found these centres have had “major health benefits for children from poorer neighbourhoods.”

Why do the Tories dogmatically oppose Sure Start?In my previous career working to end domestic violence, I saw how Sure Start centres can be a vital place for young families to get the support they need, from help with childcare to health, from employment advice to parenting support. They are also a safe place to get help with domestic violence, in a place which has no stigma attached to it and is based in the community. So it is particularly tragic that their budgets have been cut by two thirds by the Tory government, forcing many of the centres to close or cut back their services.I raised these frustrations with the minister earlier today. I was disappointed that she fails to acknowledge the benefits of this flagship Labour policy. It’s not just me saying this. A study published this week by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found these centres have had “major health benefits for children from poorer neighbourhoods.”

Posted by Thangam Debbonaire MP for Bristol West on Thursday, June 6, 2019