Families set to benefit from cash (From Warrington Guardian)

Families set to benefit from cash

FAMILIES in Newton are set to benefit from a £452 million programme to create more opportunities for young children.

Council chiefs at St Helens will receive part of the cash from the Government's Sure Start programme. The project aims to bring childcare, health services and social services together to create healthier children, stronger families, less crime and fewer teenage pregnancies.

Council leader Mike Doyle said: "Investment in services for young children and their families in deprived areas is an essential element in our efforts to tackle social exclusion and promote regeneration.

"This initiative should be warmly welcomed by all as a means of improving health, education, housing, regeneration and fighting crime to improve the quality of life for local communities."

Sure Start services will include home visits for families with new babies, better access to childcare, toddler groups and toy libraries and health and education programmes.

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