Children’s centres are service hubs where children under five years old and their families can receive seamless integrated services and information.

By 2010, every community will be served by a Sure Start Children’s Centre, offering permanent universal provision across the country, ensuring that every child gets the best start in life.

These services vary according to centre but may include: integrated early education and childcare – all centres offering Early Years provision have a qualified teacher

These services vary according to centre but may include: support for parents – including advice on parenting, local childcare options and access to specialist services for families

child and family health services – ranging from health screening, health visitor services to breast- feeding support

helping parents into work – with links to the local Jobcentre Plus and training.