BRIGHT START FOR FREE CHILDCARE

Bright Beginnings Community Nursery in Adswood has helped launch Stockport’s bright new look for promoting free childcare for two year olds.

Stockport Council, working with Manchester City Council, revealed the new illustrations as part of their efforts to raise awareness of the free places available across the borough.

Pictured (left to right) are the Deputy Manager of Bright Beginnings Lisa Williamson holding Lacey (turning two in Sept), Daisie-mai (who has taken up the free place) and Councillor Wendy Meikle.

Councillor Wendy Meikle, Executive Member for Children and Young People, said:

“This offer is still relatively new and many parents are missing out on free early learning and childcare opportunities.  This eye catching branding will be seen across hundreds of our nurseries, pre-schools and childminders and information has been sent to over 1,200 parents we believe qualify for the offer. We hope that this will help capture the attention of families and more two year olds will be able to benefit from access to new activities and exciting places to play and learn.”

Beth Breddy, Manager at Bright Beginnings, said:

“We are delighted to be involved in promoting the free places to parents. Being a not-for-profit community nursery, based in the Abacus Sure Start Children’s Centre, means we have been able to help over 25 two year olds access their free place. The 15 free hours can be used flexibly, which has certainly been a big help to parents and the children have all settled in well, enjoying the amazing spaces we have for play.”

“It’s really simple to take up this offer and we know that those children who take part get better at talking, making friends and are better prepared when it comes to starting school.  We’ve got lots of information on our website, including stories from parents across Stockport about their experiences, so it’s definitely worth taking a look” added Councillor Meikle.

Stockport Council is providing the free places to help support low income families in the borough with their children’s early learning and development through play. If families receive benefits or tax credits then a free place may be available. 

To check, drop in to any Sure Start Children’s Centre, call 0161 217 6028 or visit www.stockport.gov.uk/freechildcare for more information.

Pictured (left to right) are the Deputy Manager of Bright Beginnings Lisa Williamson holding Lacey (turning two in Sept), Daisie-mai (who has taken up the free place) and Councillor Wendy Meikle.