Over 20,000 Staffordshire families were supported by a funded childcare place for their child last term – with more set to benefit now eligibility has been expanded.
More families can take advantage of the offer in the coming months after the eligibility for a funded place expanded in September, to include working parents of babies from nine months old.
Help with childcare costs not only allows parents to return to work or training, it supports young children to develop important skills for social, emotional, and academic success.
With over 700 nurseries, childminders, and preschools, in Staffordshire offering funded childcare places, there is plenty of choice for parents to use a childcare provider that fits their family’s needs.
Several different offers are available, with support for both working parents and for some parents whose family receives additional forms of government support.
Becky Hall, parent of a two-year-old and five-year-old said:
“Without the funding I probably wouldn’t have been able to return to work because of the cost. The funding means I can carry on working.
“For my family, going to the childminder’s is very much a home from home, it’s been very good for his development. They go out on lots of trips and adventures, make new friends and build strong relationships.
“Knowing our childcare is sorted takes the pressure off our family financially and practically.”
Mark Sutton, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families said:
“By helping families with childcare costs, funded childcare supports parents to return to work or pursue education or training. It also contributes to the overall development and wellbeing of young children. I am pleased to see the majority of childcare providers in Staffordshire are supporting the scheme and that so many local families with young children are benefiting.”
Karen Harley, manager at Strawberry Poppets nursery in Featherstone said:
“The funding is very helpful, it gives parents the chance to go to work, and to get some time for themselves. Children thrive by being with other children in a warm, loving environment with lots of learning opportunities. It’s easy to apply and at nursery we help parents find out what they’re eligible for.”
Mark Moore, parent of a three-year-old said:
“The funding makes a huge difference to the cost and the nursery helped us apply for the funding. Going to nursery has had a huge impact on Jude’s development, he’s benefitted immensely and we’re really confident his nursery is a safe, nurturing place for him to grow.”
Parents with a young child can check whether their family is eligible for help with childcare costs at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk or by contacting a local nursery, preschool or childminder.
