Iain has this week given his backing to a new campaign in support of Sure Start Children’s Centres, which provide universal services for all families and children under five.

The ‘Shout out for a Sure Start’ campaign was launched this week by the charity 4Children and the popular children’s TV character Peppa Pig. The campaign has the support of children’s charities, trade unions and the Children’s Secretary Ed Balls and parents can find out more by visiting the new website at www.shoutoutforasurestart.org.uk

Iain said:

“Parents across Hartlepool tell me all the time how much they value their local Sure Start Children’s Centres, the services on offer and the help and support at hand. Most parents I talk to can’t imagine what it would be like if their local Children’s Centre was not there.

“That’s why I’m backing this campaign to shout out for Sure Start and promote the universal services on offer for families across Hartlepool like childcare and healthcare.

“Back in 1997 there were no Children’s Centres but thanks to investment from the Government there are now eight across Hartlepool, offering services to local children under five and their families.

“The Government has said it will keep investing in Sure Start because the early years of a child’s life are so important. Sure Start makes a difference to hundreds of families across Hartlepool. It should be open to all parents and children, not just a few. That’s why I’m going to keep shouting out for Sure Start and urge local parents to back the campaign too".