AN agreement that will raise the quality of child care in Blackburn and Darwen has been signed.

The key agreement, between the Learning and Skills Council Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership will see the two organisations joining forces to provide a skilled workforce for the child care sector.

It will ensure an integrated approach and sets out common goals which reinforce the commitment of both parties to developing child care in the area.

David McNulty, chairman of Blackburn with Darwen EYDCP said: "This key agreement supports our delivery of the national child care strategy to meet the needs of children and families in Blackburn and helps to ensure that we have the best possible provision in place."

Steve Palmer, of LSC said it was important to build close working relationships with key local partners.