The changes come after a public consultation in 2024, which saw hundreds of families provide feedback on the proposed changes.
The feedback has helped shape the final decisions, ensuring that services continue to meet the needs of local families.
The new offer will include support for children of all ages, so more families can get the support they need.
The provision will meet the demand for personalised support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Information about the changes is set out on the Greenwich Community Directory, where people can see the range of provision spread fairly across the borough, including in new sites such as Charlton Family Centre.
As a result of the changes, facilities are also being developed at former children’s centre sites such as Cardwell, Greenacres, and Sherington, where children with SEND will be better supported.
Councillor Adel Khaireh, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts on the proposals, whether you’re a parent, carer, professional working with young children and their families or resident.
“It is important that the services we provide reflect your needs and that we do that within financial challenges.
“It feels like we have reached a good outcome with the increase in much needed SEND support, still providing midwifery and antenatal care and using our funds effectively.
“I know how much families rely on these provisions and the difference these centres and the professionals who work there have made.
“While other councils across London are having to close children’s centres, we’re investing £3.6 million – more than any other Southeast London borough.
“I am committed to ensuring our children and young people can reach their full potential so please be assured that the support isn’t going anywhere, it will just be found in different places.”
The changes include more support for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
There is an increased demand for SEND support, with the number of school pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan in the UK growing by 71 per cent since 2018.
While some sites – including Robert Owen, Shooters Hill, Alderwood, and Mulgrave – will no longer be official children’s centres, they will still be used for other purposes, including supporting schools, nurseries, midwifery, and health visitors.
Families with children up to the age of 19 (or up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities) can get free advice and support from the Families Information Service (FIS) on a variety of topics.
You can contact FIS via 020 8921 6921 or fis@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.
