Contact: Cliff Turner, Deputy Branch Manager, Children and Families Branch, Children's Services Department, 01962 846533

1 Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

_ To approve the strategy regarding the location of children's centres, as set out in this report;

_ To consult with local parents and other stakeholders on their needs and aspirations for their children and the development children's centres in the 53 Notional Catchment Areas identified in Appendix One;

_ Report back to the Children's Services Policy Review Committee and to the Executive Member for Children's Services.

1.2 This decision supports the first aim of the Corporate Strategy, maximising life opportunities by ensuring that children:

_ are healthy;

_ stay safe;

_ enjoy and achieve;

_ make a positive contribution; and

_ achieve economic well-being.

by receiving support through delivered through children's centres.

2 Other Options considered and rejected:

Consultation without regard to indices of need.

3 Conflicts of Interest declared by the decision maker or other Executive Member consulted

None.

4 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

None.

4.1 Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent - By November 2005, Hampshire County Council must inform the Government Office (South East) (GOSE) which Notional Catchment Areas have been identified as possible locations of children's centres based on indicators of disadvantage.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor Felicity Hindson

Executive Member for Children's Services