To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will ensure that financial capability sessions and advice are offered in (a) Sure Start children’s centres and (b) as part of the Supporting People Strategy. (105499)

The revised Sure Start children’s centres practice guidance, published on 30 November 2006, highlights the importance of financial capability in enabling people to participate in society and to manage their finances effectively. It advises that children’s centres should consider providing financial education to parents as part of their support services.

In developing the Supporting People strategy an extensive consultation was conducted with their stakeholder community. The issue of financial capability was not explicitly raised, but the Department for Communities and Local Government are content to consider how it might be reflected in the strategy.

The Government will shortly publish its long-term strategy on financial capability.