A children’s centre facing proposed changes has been described as a “lifeline” by families who rely on its support.
Highfield Children’s Centre, based in Chesterfield Drive in Ipswich, is facing changes proposed by Suffolk County Council.
More than 1,000 people have signed a petition calling for the centre to remain open in its current form.
Robert Ward, a parent whose family has used the centre, said: "As a family, we've accessed many of Highfield's services, and I genuinely believe they've helped give my children the best possible start in life.
"The experiences they've had, the opportunities to play, learn and grow, and the support available to us as parents have meant an enormous amount."
The petition highlights the centre’s broad range of support, including stay and play groups, infant feeding support, infant massage, housing and financial support, help with children's development, sleep and additional needs.
Mr Ward said the close relationships with staff were a crucial part of the centre’s success.
He said: "Support doesn't always begin with a referral or an appointment.
"Sometimes it begins with a familiar face, a child happily playing or a parent finally feeling comfortable enough to ask for help.
"You can't simply move those relationships somewhere else and expect everything to carry on as before."
Lucy Westlake, another parent, described Highfield as "so much more than just a building."
She said: "It's a safe, welcoming space for every kind of parent.
"Whether you're a first-time parent feeling completely alone, or an experienced parent who just needs a friendly face, it's where we all come together."
She also said keeping services in one place was particularly important for families without access to a car and highlighted Highfield's outdoor space, including its Muddy Buddies sessions.
Mrs Westlake said: "For mums dealing with postnatal depression or anxiety, familiar places feel like a lifeline.
"Many of us have been going to Highfield for years.
"We know the staff, we know the routine, and it's one of the few places we feel truly comfortable."
Suffolk County Council has said outreach services will continue, and that its original agreement with Highfield Nursery School ended on March 31, 2025, with an informal arrangement allowing it to continue since then.
A spokesperson said services would transition to the Government’s Best Start Family Hubs model.
The council is proposing that Highfield becomes a "network Family Hub" and is in early talks with the centre about how this might work.
A consultation is now underway to gather feedback before a final decision is made.
The Government has committed £500 million to rolling out a Best Start Family Hub in every English local authority by April 2026, with services including debt advice and midwifery support.
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