Keynsham Children’s Centre New Extension complete

Improvements worth over £400,000 to Keynsham Children’s Centre have been completed by Bath & North East Somerset Council that will benefit the hundreds families who use the facilities.

The nine month project has provided a large, new multi-purpose room, refurbished outside space, and new reception area will provide better learning and support opportunities for children and families in the area. The improvements also enable use by other professionals, like health visitors.

Councillor Chris Watt, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said, “By listening to the children and families, Bath & North East Somerset Council has delivered improvements that the people who use the Centre want. The Council’s network of Children’s Centres supports parents and carers to improve life chances for young people.”

Children, parents, carers, and staff have played their part in the design including donating memorable items, associated with their childhood, to be embedded into the path in the newly designed garden.

Parent Simon Hewett said, “All parents and carers have been looking forward to using the new facilities because they will provide a better environment for childcare, education, family support, and information and advice.”

The Centre provides a safe and stimulating environment for children to enjoy with support for parents and carers. There are also spaces at the Centre for smaller group sessions, as well as one-to-one support and outreach services in the community. Other organisations, like Citizens Advice Bureau and Job Centre Plus also offer services.

Madam Chair of the Council, Councillor Sarah Bevan, added, “This building has benefited children for generations and has developed into an excellent centre for also their parents and for their carers. This additional space offers even more for this community, particularly now that other agencies have the opportunity to come in and support parents in new and much needed ways. It truly offers the children of Keynsham a sure start in life, whilst their parents and carers also receive all the help and advice they need.”

Keynsham is one of eleven Children’s Centres across the district with Chew Valley and Paulton in development. Find out more about what the Council’s Children’s Centres have to offer call 0800 073 1214 or email fis@bathnes.gov.uk or go to www.bathnes.gov.uk/childrenscentre