‘Financial climate’ blamed as axes falls on free play schemes - "Unsustainable" says schools chief Councillor Nickie Aiken

Published: 30 July 2010
by TOM FOOT
 

FREE play schemes for children are being scrapped by Westminster Council.

Schools chief Councillor Nickie Aiken said the worsening financial climate meant free children’s play schemes – including subsidised summer holidays and after-school clubs during Christmas holidays – had become “unsustainable”.

Over the next year the council expects to make £350,000 worth of savings, and has written to every headteacher in Westminster outlining the changes.

These include:

• Scrapping all free play schemes on Saturdays.
• Halving the number of subsidised play centres open over Christmas and during the February half terms.
• Means-testing free after-school play clubs.
• Charging all parents for holidays play schemes.

Cllr Aiken said fees will be introduced to meet the cost of the service and childcare needs.

She added: “For many years Westminster has, in contrast to other councils, heavily subsidised its play services. 

“In the current financial climate this is clearly not sustainable nor is it a sensible use of taxpayers’ money.

“We will ensure that all those affected by the changes will be consulted and kept fully informed over the next nine months while the restructure takes place.”

Consultation with schools will begin in the autumn with the new arrangements coming into effect in April next year.