Are Children Centre targeting everyone in the area?

[neveramorningperson]

Not sure where to post this, so hope it will work.

Are Children Center for everybody, or are they targeting people who might need more help? I really don't know, and find it hard to ask the lady at reception.

My local center runs toddler group costing £1.50 per child, and others which are free. I can't really see much difference between the 2, apart from a "progress book" given at the free mornings, where you put photos of your little ones and comment on their progress. They only accept a limited number of children at the free groups (on a first comes first served basis).

I am missing something? No one has ever said anything, but I don't really understand why sometimes you pay/ sometimes you don't. Anyone has any views? thanks

Call and ask. My local ones have some groups that are open to anyone, some you need to be refered to, and some that are for specific groups (parents under 21, children with disabilities etc). It says who each group is for on their timetable though.

They're for everyone as far as I know, certainly our HV hands out stacks of their activity timetables to everyone

The charging thing is a bit odd - are they run by different people maybe? There are small charges at ours for materials and refreshments, but it's easier to understand those!

They are open to everyone but are targeted to attract those who perhaps would not otherwise engage with services and readily access support and advice.

Not all groups and services will be open to everyone, at least not at every CC.

they have clear groups for children with additional needs, but nothing said about the others.

Thank you, I should give a call, I would feel less awkward then!

They are for all children
I manage a preschool and our local children's centre have given us registration forms to include in our welcome packs

They are for everyone, and it's really positive if a wide cross-section of the community use it since that removes any stigma which might be there if it was more targeted.

Also, anyone can struggle with parenting and benefit from help.