A fresh consultation into plans to replace the county’s 35 children’s centres with 14 family centres was launched yesterday.

The new set of talks will run for 10 weeks, as Bucks County Council aims to establish the public’s views on how an overhaul of the Early Help service should be delivered.

Early Help provides early intervention support for families, often tackling issues such as domestic abuse, mental health problems, substance abuse or neglect.

A consultation into plans to replace children’s centres in the county with nine centralised hubs were abandoned in March, after the council was threatened with legal action over the quality of the investigation.

Last month children’s services chiefs unveiled fresh Early Help plans, including replacing children’s centres with 14 family centres – which would serve young people up to the age of 19.

Another option suggested by BCC would be keeping the Early Help service as it is, and the county’s children’s centres would remain open – however budget constraints would mean reduced opening hours and services.

Closing all current children’s centres in favour of a “fully targeted outreach service” is the third and final option put forward by BCC, which would be delivered by teams working in different areas.

Members of the public and families affected by the changes are urged to take part by completing and online form, or printed copies in children’s centres and libraries.

Public meetings will also take place in Aylesbury, Wycombe and Amersham to provide more information on the plans.

BCC’s cabinet member for children’s services, Warren Whyte, said: “We are very eager to know what members of the public think of our new proposals and their feedback will help inform any decisions made next year.

“We have looked at evidence and research from other local authorities who have successfully introduced similar service changes, which suggests our preferred option (Option B), offers the best way to deliver improved outcomes for children and families most in need.

“This would be a mix of family centres and outreach services, and would increase partnership working with other organisations, such as schools and health services for instance, offering proactive, connected and targeted services for the people who need them.

“We look forward to hearing your views on this option, and the others proposed in our consultation.”

The consultation will run until 11pm on Thursday, December 13.

Details for the public meetings are:

  • Thursday, November 8, 7pm to 8.30pm - Mezzanine floor, Bucks County Council Offices, Aylesbury
  • Monday, November 12, 7pm to 8.30pm – The Gateway Room, Bucks New Uni, High Wycombe
  • Monday, November 19, 1pm to 2.30pm – Large Barn Hall, Amersham Community Centre