UNCERTAINTY about what is being proposed while a public consultation is taking place is not helpful when members of the community are keen to have their say.

As with the temporary reprieve for the Manor House Museum, there was never any real certainty that Wharfedale's children's centres would continue to be run in the same way by Bradford Council indefinitely. The hundreds who spoke out in favour of saving centres in Ilkley and Menston several months ago, however, are unlikely to have change their mind, and would no doubt speak any plans to close buildings. The problem with the new consultation, and the proposals it relates to, however, is that it is not entirely clear what is on the table. Certainly, there are plans to reduce spending, and at least part of this we know could be achieved by sharing some services between centres and therefore reducing administrative costs. But with the admission at a briefing session that closing some of the Bradford Districts 41 children's centres has not been ruled out, it raises worries that anyone adamant about keeping their local children's centre, should closure be an option, might not realise they need to speak up now. Additionally, although the consultation sessions are open to all, they are not taking place in all the actual centres potentially affected. As the users of these centres are predominantly parents caring for young children, getting to these sessions could prove difficult. Certainly, everyone who can make it is advised to attend one, and to ask questions when offered the opportunity - but more chances to attend such sessions would give a better picture of where the community stands on the future of these facilities and servcies.