Charlotte MacKenzie today welcomed an independent evaluation report which shows Sure Start has a positive impact on the lives of children and families, and the announcement of more funding for children’s centres and services.

The report found children behave better and are more independent if they live in areas with Sure Start Children’s Centres. Other findings show that parents have more positive parenting skills and provide a better home learning environment for their children, helping prepare children to do well at school and make the most of their talents. The government is on track to meet its pledge of having 3,500 children’s centres by 2010, one for every community.

Charlotte MacKenzie, who wants to be the first MP for the new constituency of Truro and Falmouth, said: “Many children are already being given a better start because The Lighthouse in Falmouth and Penryn Children’s Centre are supporting local families.”

“The Children’s Centres funding will mean new buildings and additional support for parents and children at many local schools and community centres. In Truro this includes Tregolls, Archbishop Benson, and Bosvigo schools, Truro Nursery School, and the community centres at Malabar, Malpas, and Trelander.”

“The latest funding will also mean more community outreach workers in the most disadvantaged areas. Outreach workers will provide home visiting and other support that will make a real difference to families who find it difficult to access services.”

“Together with the Chancellor’s budget announcement of increases in Child Tax Credit, these developments will make a real difference for local children.”