The Government will introduce free childcare for the most disadvantaged two-year-olds around the country, from this week.
Children’s Secretary Ed Balls said the extra hours of free childcare could be used to help parents and carers train or gain employment and are part of the Government’s commitment to eradicate child poverty by 2020.
The Prime Minister said the move is an important part of the Government’s continued expansion of childcare services.
Gordon Brown said:
“I strongly believe that children deserve the very best start in life. That is why I am so pleased that from this week, parents of two year olds from disadvantaged families across the country will now have access to free childcare. This is an important part of the Government’s continued expansion of childcare services for young families.”
Children’s Secretary Ed Balls visited Morningside Sure Start Children’s Centre in Hackney this morning to launch Sure Start Children’s Centres Week, which is designed to raise awareness among all families with young children of the services available to them.
“Ten years ago there were no Children’s Centres, but today there are over 3,000 providing universal services to millions of families across the country. The Government is determined to continue investing in Sure Start, because we know the early years of a child’s life are so important.” “
The Government also announced £26m funding for Booktrust from 2009-2011. The funding includes £18 million for around 12 million books for 0-3 year olds.
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