Childcare providers in Stockport are experiencing a boost to business as the Government opens up free childcare places to support low income families.
The scheme, which was available to two year olds from families in receipt of certain benefits, is now also open to families who have an annual household income below £16,190 per year – approximately 40% of two year olds.
In Stockport, 1,274 two year olds are entitled to free early learning and childcare in pre-schools, nursery schools or childminders. This has created business opportunities for the 100 childcare providers who have already signed up to accept these funded places in Stockport.
Ensuring that there are enough places available in the borough to meet demand has been crucial to the success of the offer.
Amanda Vardy has been working as a childminder in Brinnington for nine years. She said:
“From a business perspective accepting these funded places means that I’m now at capacity and there is certainly more demand from parents out there. I currently have three, two year old children taking up the free 15 hours and it works really well. As a childminder I follow the same Early Years Foundation Stages as a nursery or pre-school. If these funded places weren’t available then so many two year olds would miss out on the opportunity for early education. I am happy to be a part of this scheme and in the children’s development through to school age.”
Lyndsey Cross, Manager at Stockport Village Nursery, added:
“To better accommodate the growing demand for two year old funded places we reopened a playroom for ‘sessional care,’ run by qualified experienced staff. Currently we’ve got about 25 two year olds using their 15 free hours with us. The hours can be used flexibly in either morning or afternoon sessions during term time and we also have children that stretch their entitlement through the year as well as some that top up with additional hours. It’s certainly helped with the sustainability of our business.”
If you are a child care provider and want to know more about being part of the funded two year old offer please contact Glenda Brocklehurst, Project Manager, Stockport Council. Email glenda.brocklehurst@stockport.gov.uk
Pictured is Lyndsey Cross with two year old Hannah at Stockport Village Nursery.
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