An Elm Park mum is urging Havering Council to reconsider its proposal to close “lifeline” children’s centres. 

The council has suggested closing the Chippenham Road, Elm Park and Hilldene children’s centres among a host of cost-saving measures in its live budget consultation. 

Launched in October, the consultation seeks feedback from Havering residents as the local authority looks to plug a £70 million gap over the next four years.

Amber Hoadley, a mother-of-two who previously worked for the Royal household, has written to the council urging it retain the services the children’s centres provide. 

She told the Recorder: “The children's centres, in particular our Elm Park one, are a lifeline to so many in our community.  

“Prenatal and postnatal care is given here by the community midwives, and a range of baby and toddler clubs from baby massage and stay and plays are offered to families. 

“They also offer a wealth of knowledge to provide families with the support and assistance they need including support from the children and disabilities team, help with benefits and housing and accessing support surrounding, alcohol and domestic abuse, to name a few.” 

Ms Hoadley especially warned against closing the Elm Park centre, Little Cherubs.

She said: "It will impact some of the most vulnerable people in our society, and what for, to build more flats for some quick cash, putting more pressure on our vital services?” 

In its consultation, the council notes it will “explore ways to deliver reduced targeted youth provision and support approaches to ensure the sustainability of provision, where possible”. 

It adds it believes the proposals could save £1.6 million over four years. 

Romford Recorder: Chippenham Road (top) and Hilldene (bottom) children's centres are also being looked at for potential closure in the council's consultationChippenham Road (top) and Hilldene (bottom) children's centres are also being looked at for potential closure in the council's consultation (Image: Google)

Cllr Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, said: “Our budget consultation lays out a number of proposals to create crucial savings in order for us to continue to run vital services and present a balanced budget.  

“As previously said – we would prefer not to be in position where we would have to make any of these proposals but that’s just not the reality we are faced with. 

“I urge residents to look over our budget plans for next year and share their views on individual proposals in our current consultation which runs until the end of December.” 

Ms Hoadley, however, is concerned the potential impact on young children will outweigh any savings made. 

She added: “Why on earth would the council want to take more opportunities away from them?” 

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