Greg Hands MP has welcomed new figures showing that 305 children in Hammersmith & Fulham and 211 in Kensington & Chelsea are benefiting from the Government’s 30 hours free childcare offer.
The offer saves working families approximately £5,000 per year per child, which saw more than 200,000 children benefit nationally in its first term. There are now nearly 300,000 children in 30 hours places in England. This is backed by a record investment of £6 billion per year in childcare, which includes an extra £1 billion per year by 2020 to deliver the free entitlements.
High quality childcare not only helps children get the best start in life, but also supports many parents who want or need to work. Beneficiaries of the scheme have reported improved family finances as well as a better work-life balance.
Alongside introducing and increasing the National Living Wage, and raising the personal allowance, childcare support is one of a number of ways this Government is helping families with the cost of living.
Commenting, Greg Hands MP said: “For many parents, being able to afford good-quality childcare is essential for them to work and support their families. In some cases it is not just a concern, but their main concern, and I know from speaking with families Chelsea & Fulham what a difference 30 free hours is making. Reliable childcare gives parents peace of mind and makes day to day life that bit easier.
“We want to help people with the cost of living. That is why this government is spending more money on childcare than ever before, helping parents to balance their home and working lives whilst ensuring more children get the best possible start in life.”