Lamb Attacks Government Over The Proposed Closure of North Norfolk Family Outreach Project

2.48.33pm GMT Fri 9th Jan 2004

Norman Lamb has attacked the Government over the proposed closure of North Norfolk Outreach Project due to reduced funding and rule changes.

Mr Lamb has been informed that changes in the Children's Fund budget, and a requirement from Government to dedicate 25% of their budget to crime prevention, have led to the fund having to cut spending on service delivery by 50% over the next financial year.

Mr Lamb said: "It is extraordinary that we face losing so many good projects including this vital North Norfolk scheme. This Government insists on dictating so much from the centre. Here in Norfolk we have a scheme which is effective and is working. The Government in its wisdom changes the rules and all the good work and help is lost. This is crazy. I will be meeting with the head of the Children's Fund in Norfolk on 16th January, and I will also be putting down questions to the Minister asking her to intervene to stop this nonsensical move."

Norman Lamb met with children and parents who have been supported by the North Norfolk Family Outreach Project in December 2003. The project has supported families with a range of needs and difficulties since autumn 2002. Mr Lamb received an email from 9 year old Sam Moffatt asking for his help.