BRIGHTON and Hove City Council has said it will protect two of four children’s centres at risk from cutbacks.

In a last minute change before the budget meeting next week it retreated on threats to hack the centres if it did not secure a near 6% council tax hike.

It has listened to “overwhelming” feedback from parents and staff. Responses to the council consultation nearly tripled after The Argus Save Our Centres campaign was launched. It shows how important it is for people to shout if they don’t agree with council proposals. It is comforting to know the council has reassessed its priorities and has found ways to fund these services after learning how valuable they are. But it is a big shame we were in this situation in the first place with hundreds of families fearing they would lose the vital centres. And of course worries remain for many.

Yesterday’s announcement made clear there is still plenty of work to be done with two children’s centres under threat and services facing the axe. Save Our Centres will continue until we can be sure families won’t lose the cherished support.