SUPPORT FOR MULTI-CULTURAL SCHOOLS RESCUED (Cheltenham Liberal Democrats)

Cheltenham Liberal Democrats <info@cheltlibdems.org.uk>

SUPPORT FOR MULTI-CULTURAL SCHOOLS RESCUED

February 8, 2007 10:42 AM

Gloucestershire's Liberal Democrat County Councillors have successfully campaigned to save the multi-cultural budget for schools from a Tory cut.

Following Liberal Democrat emphasis on the importance of multi-cultural initiatives, the Tory administration today approved a U-turn in their draft budget, dropping a previous plan to cut the multi-cultural fund.

The Children and Young People's multicultural budget supports schemes to improve racial awareness in Gloucestershire's schools and also aids the achievement and inclusion of children from minority ethnic communities.

Cllr Charmian Sheppard, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Children and Young People, asked questions on the proposed cut at last month's meeting of full council. She said: "I am delighted that the Tories have seen sense and dropped their plans to cut this fund. When I raised the issue at full council it was clear that the Tories were not fully aware of the impact this cut would have. I congratulate the cabinet member on researching the issue and making the appropriate changes to this budget proposal."

She added: "Imposing the proposed cut to multi-cultural initiatives would have done tremendous damage to the relationship between the County Council and minority ethnic communities. I am relieved that the Tories have changed direction on this issue. Protecting this fund ensures equalities training for teachers, the provision of events to celebrate achievement and diversity among our children, and many other equally worthwhile initiatives."

Liberal Democrat group leader, Cllr Jeremy Hilton, said: "The Liberal Democrat group believe more money should be spent on promoting equality in our schools, not less. It is vital that all young people in Gloucestershire feel like valued members of an inclusive community."