Children’s centre closes at Owler Brook

Story: Muneebah Waheed

The Children’s centre situated in Owler Brook School is due to close at the end of July. Parents are expected to now use facilities at the Burngreave Children’s Centre or at the Earl Marshal Youth Centre.

The Children’s centre has been a pivotal part of the community, with many parents using the facilities to receive help and advice. The centre also provided crucial interaction with new mothers at a sensitive time.

One parent commented on the closure saying

“It’s a pity to see a purpose built building go to waste. The centre has benefited so many people.”

Others also felt the same:

“The Centre has provided me with a lot of support at a time when I needed it the most. I can’t believe it’s closing.” Uzma Mohammed.

“The building was specifically built for the Children’s Centre. Everyone feels comfortable here and it has helped so many people. By relocating, some won’t be able to receive the important help and advice.” Parveen.

Claire Shaw, Senior Learning Mentor at Owler Brook School, said,

“It's going to be difficult for the families we work with, they are under a lot of pressure and the loss of the Children’s Centre will leave a lot of families vulnerable. The Children’s Centre services allows us to build relationships with parents before their children start school, which means they are more confident with us and this gives us a head start in identifying children’s needs.”

The Council issued a statement on the closing of the children’s centre, saying

“Local parents and carers will be able to get advice, information and support from Owler Brook as an outreach centre within the Burngreave Children’s Centre Area.”

This document was last modified on 2013-07-21 19:22:12.