Community input sought for Yangebup family centre

The State Government is inviting community involvement in the new family centre to be built at Yangebup.

Premier and Minister for the Family Carmen Lawrence said she hoped residents would take the opportunity to have input into their new family centre.

Dr Lawrence said the centre could involve the whole community through a range of programs and activities.

She said it would particularly benefit women with young children, providing a meeting place for the community where neighbourly friendships could develop.

"The centre will offer an activity and social development programme for four-year-olds, and will be developed as a multi-purpose venue which can be used by all age groups," Dr Lawrence said.

"There are 24 family centres already operating very successfully throughout the State.

"They have rapidly established themselves as a unique and valuable community support, as we had envisaged."

Dr Lawrence said local community participation was a key aspect in the planning and management of the family centre.

"It is important that the centre responds to the needs of the community members who use it, so their involvement in all aspects of the program is encouraged."

Interested people can participate in the decision-making process by nominating for the centre's interim management committee.

Community Services Minister Eric Ripper will chair the meeting, which will be held in the library of the Yangebup Primary School, Moorhen Drive, on Wednesday February 12 at 7.30 pm.

It is expected that the new centre, in Dunraven Drive will be ready for use by the third school term.

Further details are available from the Children's Services Project Team, Department for Community Services, on 222 2824, or from the Office of the Family on 222 0333.