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MP backs campaign to 'shout out for a Sure Start'

Jim Cunningham, MP for Coventry South, has this week given his backing to a new campaign in support of Sure Start Children's Centres, which provide universal services for all families and children under five.

The 'Shout out for a Sure Start' campaign was launched this week by the charity 4Children and the popular children's TV character Peppa Pig. The campaign has the support of children's charities, trade unions and the Children's Secretary Ed Balls.

Today, Sure Start reaches 2.6 million children nationwide, improving the health and social development of children under five years. There are now over 3000 Sure Start Centres in England and are open to everyone in the community, regardless of their background and circumstances.

Jim Cunningham commented:

"Parents across Coventry tell me all the time how much they value their local Sure Start Children's Centres, the services on offer and the help and support at hand. Most parents I talk to can't imagine what it would be like if their local Children's Centre was not there.

"That's why I'm backing this campaign to shout out for Sure Start and promote the universal services on offer for families across Coventry like childcare and healthcare.

"In 1997, there were no Sure Start centres, and no universal entitlement to free childcare. Today there are 19 centres across Coventry. The Labour Government has said it will keep investing in Sure Start because the early years of a child's life are so important.

"This is in stark contrast to the Conservative Party, who have said they would take this service away from those on modest incomes. I believe it should be open to all parents and children.

"That's why I'm going to keep shouting out for Sure Start and urge local parents to back the campaign too."