Value of Rotherham's universal baby-packs questioned
A CONERSVATIVE councillor has raised questions about Rotherham’s universal baby pack scheme, describing it as “laudable” but querying whether providing packs to all families represents the best use of public money.
The scheme, which sees Rotherham Council provide free baby packs to all new parents in the borough, has seen high take-up since its launch, prompting the council to consider extending it.
The proposals were examined by councillors this week as part of routine scrutiny.
If the scheme is extended, it would be backed by a budget of £410,000 a year for the next four years – a total of £1.6m.
Each pack contains clothing, a toy, a book and other practical items designed to support babies during their first six months.
Conservative Cllr John Blackham told a meeting of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee the scheme was “laudable” but questioned whether providing packs universally was the best use of public money, suggesting a more targeted approach could reduce waste while maintaining quality.
Cllr Blackham questioned if the funding would be better used to target the most needy families.
“Anybody will take one for free, and a lot of parents in Rotherham will not need one in reality,” he said.
” I don’t like that this isn’t targeted because I believe we’re wasting a lot of money. I certainly don’t see an advantage for that amount of money.
” I think what you’re trying to do is laudable, but I do think it’s this particular aspect of it basically includes a substantial amount of waste.”
Labour councillors defended the universal approach, saying it ensures families do not miss support.
Cllr Victoria Cusworth, cabinet member for children and young people said the scheme is ‘absolutely not a waste of money,’ and that the authority is ‘committed to give every child the best start in life’.
“It’s not always about finance, it’s about preparedness for having a baby.”
Cllr Cusworth added that the items and information included in the packs help families engage with Family Hubs and other services, while also ensuring important messages, such as safe sleeping, reach every new parent in Rotherham.
“I don’t think that a penny of that’s wasted.”
The council has previously said the scheme forms part of its wider work to support early years development and reduce inequalities.