STAFF have been “gagged” to stop them talking about controversial children’s centres cuts, according to a union official.

Unison last night claimed that Sure Start workers were being “intimidated” by their managers.

Kirklees Council plans to cut £725,000 from the budget for the 32 Sure Starts next year – a move which could lead to job cuts and loss of some services.

However, staff have been warned not to talk to the media about the issue.

Children’s centre integrated services manager Karen Murray emailed staff on March 8 to “remind everyone” of her “expectations”.

These include:

“You should not be circulating any letters, flyers, or general publicity regarding the review from any source other than the local authority.

“If you are asked questions about the review then you should provide objective answers based on the information you have been given.

“You should not provide comments to the press regarding the review and should avoid being captured in photographs concerning the review.”

Unison chief steward Graham Paisley last night claimed the email was proof that management was threatening Sure Start staff.