An East Lancashire MP has highlighted the new government offer of 30 hours of funded childcare for children from nine months old until they begin school as vital to help parents make ends meet.
Hyndburn Labour backbencher Sarah Smith has also praised its long-term commitment to extending the Best Start Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme for the next three years.
The 30 hours of government-funded childcare for children from nine months old until they start reception will save parents and guardians up to £7,500 per child, per year, helping families balance work and childcare.
Mrs Smith’s praise came despite continuing national concerns about the number of staff and places to make the initiative work.
The £600 million investment in HAF aims to ensure that families can count on free, nutritious meals and enriching activities during every school holiday, when additional strain can be placed on family budgets.
Mrs Smith said: “I speak to families in Hyndburn all the time who tell me how hard it is to make ends meet.
“With a young child myself, I know how expensive early years education and childcare is.
“That’s why I’ve fought so hard for proper support.
"Saving money means food on the table and a bit more breathing space.
“And with £600m secured for holiday clubs, parents can finally plan ahead knowing the meals and activities for their kids, like the brilliant club I visited at Oswaldtwistle’s Brave Church this summer, will continue.
"I’ll keep fighting to put money back in local families’ pockets and to make sure every child here has the best possible start in life.”
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