Rural Sure Start told to ‘grow your own’

Sure Start projects in rural areas must develop their own staff’s
talents rather than compete for scarce skilled people, a report
published by the Countryside Agency recommends this week.

It adds that existing services must not be undermined by the
promotion of new Sure Start projects and service providers should
be prepared for a slow pace of development and possible initial low
levels of take-up.

The Countryside Agency has been helping the government adapt Sure
Start services so they can be delivered effectively in rural areas.

Around 700,000 children live in poverty in rural areas but they
have often been overlooked because they are dispersed and do not
live near services, explains the report.

– Delivering Services to Children and Families in Rural Areas:
The Early Lessons from Sure Start available at www.countryside.gov.uk