Children’s Commissioner launches children’s manifesto calling on political parties to back six pledges to transform life chances for kids

LGA RESPONDS TO CHILDREN’S COMMISSIONER’S MANIFESTO

Responding to the Children’s Commissioner launching a children’s manifesto calling on political parties to back six pledges to transform life chances for kids, Cllr Judith Blake, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, said:

“All councils want children to get the best start and opportunities in life.

“The Spending Round delivered a £3.5 billion funding package for councils next year which will help them as they strive to support our most vulnerable young people. Funding pressures have forced many to cut or end early intervention services which can prevent problems, for example relating to children’s mental health or involvement in crime, before they escalate. It therefore remains vital that services supporting young people, children and families are fully funded.

“We have worked hard to demonstrate the unprecedented demand councils face supporting children with special needs, so we are pleased the Government is listening and has provided £700 million for these services next year.  We look forward to the review into SEND services and hope that this will lead to increased and sustained funding for this area.”