A TRAILBLAZING scheme to create more opportunities for young children and their families in Newton got off to a sure start this month.

A working party of council, health and voluntary workers has been set up at St Helens Borough Council in a bid to support the area's most disadvantaged communities.

The intiative is part of the government-backed £452 million Sure Start programme. It will provide home visits for families with new-born babies and better access to early support such as childcare, toddler groups and toy libraries. It also promises to improve the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of children by improving access to health and education programmes.

A council spokeswoman said: "Sure Start aims to create stronger families and communities and healthier children who are more eager to learn. It is hoped it will also result in less crime and fewer school age pregnancies."

Chairman of Social Services, Clr Leon McGuire, said: "Investment in services for young children and their families in deprived areas is an essential part of our efforts to tackle social exclusion and promote regeneration. This initiative should be warmly welcomed by all as a means of achieving better health, education and opportunities for young children and their parents."

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