Local residents to protest over threatened closure of early learning centres, says UNISON

Local residents, set to protest today (Thursday) over the uncertain future facing council-run nurseries in South Tyneside, says UNISON.

The demonstration will take place outside South Tyneside Town Hall, with campaigners calling on the council to protect South Tyneside Accredited Network for Learning in the Early Years (STANLEY) nurseries from closure. 

The 10 centres, provide essential nursery provision and early years support upon which families across the borough rely. 

South Tyneside Council is currently consulting with staff and unions on proposals which include shutting the STANLEY learning centres. UNISON says residents are taking action amid growing concerns about the future of the services. 

UNISON is supporting staff and residents as part of the campaign to safeguard the services which are a lifeline for working families and offer wider support for children's development. 

UNISON Northern regional secretary Clare Williams said: “Nursery staff are the backbone of communities, providing essential care that allows local families to work and thrive. They deserve to be treated fairly and with respect, not managed through uncertainty.

“Compulsory redundancies must be taken off the table. Managers need to engage in full and meaningful consultation with staff and unions. Anything less is a disservice to these dedicated professionals.

“These nurseries provide a vital service and must be kept open”