High price

Published: 9 December, 2010

• I FEEL outraged by the recent decision to close play services. 

All those directly concerned and affected – working parents, children and workers – will unfairly suffer. 

As a single working parent, I very much rely on and value play services in Camden: they allow me to work, give me financial independence and a bit of a social life. Play services give children opportunities to make friends outside school and enjoy themselves with other kids in a safe environment. 

What are working parents expected to do with children if no play services are available any more? What will children do if parents are working? What about all the qualified workers who not only offer such a reliable service but also show care, dedication and patience to all the children they look after and give their skills to developing a sense of community? 

What will become of them and their families? 

The decision may end up costing much more than it’s trying to save, with pressures on the police, benefits, the NHS and schools.

CHRISTINE HOCHLEITNER
Address supplied