Rowley Regis playgroup fees set to triple
Fees to use playgroups run at children's centres in Sandwell are to be raised under new controversial plans that could also see children lose their places. Letters have now been sent out to parents.
The letter, aimed at users of Rowley Springfield Sure Start Centre in Rowley Regis, outlines proposed changes to fees and admissions. As well as a fee increase from £1 to £3 a day, parents are being warned priority for places will be given to 'targeted children', meaning some children of working parents will no longer be eligible.
Operations director Richard Beckett said at present some centres charge and some do not, and not all centres charge the same.
However, he said the Trust is moving towards a standard fee and intake approach across all of the centres, which could impact dozens of families using the service.
Furious parents who use the Rowley Regis site will meet with bosses at a meeting next Thursday at the children's centre, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The changes are due to come into force on February 25.
