Funded childcare scheme launched

Working parents in Bridgend County Borough are now able to access up to 30 hours of funded early years education and childcare for their three and four-year-olds.

Bridgend County Borough Council is the latest local authority in Wales to access the Welsh Government’s childcare scheme, which gives eligible working parents of three and four-year-old children across the county borough 30 hours of funded early years education and childcare for up to 48 weeks of the year during both term-time and the school holiday period.

The aim of the scheme is to reduce the strain of childcare issues on the working parent and to also ensure childcare is not a barrier to parents who are looking to return to work.

Eligible parents will be able to access the offer from the beginning of the term following their child's third birthday until the September following their fourth birthday.

I am delighted to confirm that the Welsh Government’s Childcare Offer will soon be available to working parents across the county borough.

It is well-documented that the cost of childcare is one of the biggest challenges facing working families. The council is keen to support working people in the county borough by offering good quality, flexible and affordable childcare.”

Councillor Dhanisha Patel, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations

Jackie Roberts, Managing Director, Old School House Nursery, Pen-y-Fai, said: “I’m really pleased that we are able to offer the scheme to the working parents that use our nursery. Sometimes, there is an assumption that if you are in employment, you are able to afford childcare costs. However, this is not always the case.

“Childcare expenses can leave working parents struggling financially, so it’s great to be able to offer parents something that will go some way to reducing their monthly outgoings. I will be recommending the scheme to any current or new parents that choose to place their child with us.”

Councillor Patel added: “This new scheme can reduce pressures on family incomes, whether both parents are working or you’re a single parent in employment. It also supports the wellbeing of children by nurturing positive childcare experiences.

“I would encourage anyone interested in the scheme to find out more through the council’s website,  or call 01656 642649.”