£6 million boost for childcare in Somerset » Education » 24dash.com

Childcare in Somerset has been given a boost by the Department of Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) Sure Start programme which will give Somerset County Council an extra £6 million to develop childcare facilities.

Somerset County Council will be improving and expanding childcare facilities for young children in Somerset after the DCSF announced an extra £2 million of funding will be given to the council every year for the next three years.

The money will be used to develop private, voluntary and independent childcare facilities for children aged 0-5 years across the county.

Of the £2 million funding this year, £1 million has already been allocated to create new childcare buildings.

£500,000 will be available for improving the quality of existing childcare facilities and £500,000 will be available to extend opening hours and increase the number of places available, making childcare more flexible and accessible.

Jenni Boyles, Somerset County Council’s Early Years Lead, said: “The extra funding is great news for parents and young children across Somerset.

"Somerset County Council will use the money to create and improve quality learning environments for children aged 0-5.”

Councillor Pauline Clarke, Somerset County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, added: “Providing excellent childcare facilities across Somerset allows parents more flexibility to participate in other activities such as working or learning.

"The investment in childcare facilities ensures that children can enjoy their early years learning and playing in a safe environment.”