Jobs to go in shake-up of council family services (From Salisbury Journal)

Jobs to go in shake-up of council family services

10:35am Thursday 2nd February 2012 in News By Annie Riddle

MORE Wiltshire Council jobs are being axed in a shake-up of support services for families with young children.

The early years team currently has the equivalent of 71.5 full-time staff. This will be reduced to 57, in part by leaving 4.5 vacancies unfilled.

The council claims, however, that families in the greatest need will receive “more targeted and effective support”.

It says: “The team will now work in a more localised way ensuring nurseries, childminders, schools and the children’s centre all work together to support families in the local area, removing duplication from the service and making savings.”

All 30 children’s centres will remain open, and the cuts will enable the council to invest in a year-round, rather than term time only, service for providers who work with children with difficulties and disabilities.

Cabinet member for children’s services Lionel Grundy said: “We have to find innovative ways to protect and improve the service we give the providers that support families with young children while making efficiencies.

“I am pleased that these changes, which have reshaped the service and will invest in key areas, will ensure this is this the case.”