Consultation by: Birmingham City Council
Birmingham City Council consulted on proposals to repurpose children’s centres and family hubs across the city. Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull raised concerns about how feedback was gathered, including unclear messaging, late publication of key documents, and limited opportunities for people to attend drop-in sessions. We also highlighted a lack of clarity in the supporting information, which made it difficult for families to understand what service changes would mean in practice. We warned that the proposals risk deepening health inequalities particularly where families may no longer have services within walking distance and recommended that a formal Health Impact Assessment be undertaken. We will continue to listen to local people about the impact of these changes and share relevant feedback with the council.
We raised concerns about unclear consultation processes, lack of supporting information, and potential impacts on health inequalities resulting from proposed changes to children’s centres.
Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull’s response
Birmingham City Council consulted on proposals to repurpose several children’s centres and family hubs across the city. We responded to ensure families could understand the proposals and contribute meaningfully.
Issues with the consultation process
We raised concerns about unclear messaging, late documentation, and limited opportunities to attend drop in sessions.
Lack of clarity about proposed changes
People were not provided with enough detail about how services would operate post changes, making it difficult to give informed feedback.
Risk of deepening health inequalities
We highlighted that families may lose walkable access to vital early years services and recommended a formal Health Impact Assessment.
Our ongoing role
We will continue to gather feedback and share people’s experiences with Birmingham City Council.
| HWBSol Children's Centres Consultation Response | Download File (pdf 118.94 KB) |