2yoboy.jpg

Did you know that if you have a family income of less than £16,190, if you have a child with certain disabilities, or who is or has been in local authority care, you could get fifteen hours free childcare a week? Is this you? Or anyone you know?

Free childcare can help your child become more confident, play with other children, develop their language skills and learn new things. Fifteen hours a week could also allow some time for you, time to work, or time to go on a course.

Amelia Richards, whose son attends Little Yum Yums Nursery at St Mark’s Church, Colveston Crescent, said: “The fifteen hours free nursery care has helped my son immensely to develop his social skills and speech, among other things. It gives him an opportunity that he wouldn't normally have to socialise with children from different backgrounds and to take part in fun activities and play sessions on a regular basis.

“The nursery has been kind and supportive from the start and the application process was very simple. They have worked with me to help my son overcome behavioural difficulties and feed back to me about his achievements. He looks forward to going every day.

"It also gives me an invaluable opportunity to get various tasks done that are difficult with a toddler, such as shopping, preparing meals and of course a chance to relax and spend quality time by myself!” 

Belinda Nkrumah also took up a free nursery place for her 2-year-old son. She said: “The free nursery place has been really helpful. I was having family issues and have been stressed. Having three hours a day to myself allows me to relax my mind and do other activities. My son enjoys going to nursery. It has helped with his speech and he is now communicating well.”

Find out more and apply online at https://www.learningtrust.co.uk/free. You will need your national insurance number, date of birth, and some other personal information.