East Sussex County Council propose to close Hampden Park Children's Centre and Old Town Children's Centre as soon as April next year. 

As part of their ironically named 'Early Help Strategy' they are making further cuts to children's services across the county, with 10 of 26 children's centres in the county listed to close if they cannot find alternative providers. 

Early Years is the most important stage of development for young minds.The excellent service provided by our local children's centres, and serving our most deprived communities makes a huge difference in the lives of local young people. 

Under the revised Early Help Strategy, services will be offered from 12 children’s centres and four youth centres;

Shinewater (Eastbourne), Devonshire (Eastbourne), Robsack (Hastings), Hastings Town, St Leonards, East Hastings, Lewes, Peacehaven, Saxonwood, Uckfield, Hailsham, Sidley. Hollington Youth Centre (Hastings), Heathfield Youth Centre, The Joff Youth Centre, Archery Youth Centre (Eastbourne).

The county council claims it will seek to identify alternative providers for 10 children’s centres;High Weald, Seaford, Chailey, Ringmer, Battle, West St Leonards, Old Town (Eastbourne), Crowborough, Rye and Egerton Park.

Rooms at three centres based in externally owned buildings – Heathfield, Newhaven and at The Bridge in Hastings – will remain available for hire to provide services as needed but Hampden Park children’s centre will close with services moved to Shinewater children’s centre.

Eastbourne needs local services, accessible to everyone who needs them. We, the undersigned, believe our local children's centres are vital community assets. Save Our Children's Centres!