The core purpose of a children's centre is to improve outcomes for young children and their families, with a particular focus on those in greatest need. They work to make sure all children are properaly prepared for school, regardless of background or family circumstances. Children's centres also offer support to parents to help them raise their children.

Chalgrove & Watlington Children's Centre supports families on issues such as pregnancy, school absence, self-esteem in adults and children, physical and mental health issues, families needing financial and housing support as well general parenting advice and guidance.

Under the new Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) service there will be no 'universal support' for this area, meaning support will only be provided by OCC to families in severe circumstances. None of the preventative work that the children's centre currently provides will be undertaken.

Support from OCC will be available to the most vulnerable families from the new Children and Family Centre in Didcot. This leaves the majority of families in this area without any support, including those who may be at risk but have not yet reached crises point. It is therefore vital that communities retain local services and activities to stop families reaching this point.

“It takes a whole village to raise a child”

Without immediate action from the local community Chalgrove & Watlington Children's Centre will close in March 2017.

Together with local stakeholders we have put together a business plan which projects the centre will require approximately £35,000 per annum to continue these vital services. We have secured some money from the local parish councils and have a funding application in with OCC. Please do spread the word about this project and donate any amount that you can.