Parents/carers of eligible two years olds are being urged to make the most of the free early learning and childcare that is available to them across the Borders
The offer applies to children with parents or carers who receive:
- Income Support, Income-based Job Seeker's Allowance, any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance, Incapacity/severe disablement allowances, Pension Credit, Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Universal Credit with a monthly earned income of not more than £796
- Both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit with an income of up to £9,552
- Child Tax Credit, but not Working Tax Credit, with an income of less than £19,995
Two-year-olds who are looked after by a local council, the subject of a kinship care or guardianship order are also eligible. As are children of a parent who has experience of care.
Once a child becomes entitled to the hours they will remain so even if their parent or carer becomes employed or the parent or carer’s situation changes.
Places are provided in some school nursery classes, as well as private day nurseries, playgroups or child-minders through SBC’s own services or in conjunction with providers in the private or third sector.
Councillor Leagh Douglas, Executive Member for Education and Lifelong Learning
“Eligible children and their parents or carers are continuing to experience the benefits of taking up their entitlement to free early learning and childcare hours at their local provision. Children are not only given the opportunity to develop their social, language and learning skills, but parents and carers are able to have some vital time to themselves.
“I would encourage any parent or carer who thinks they might be eligible for the free hours to check the council website to find out more about what is provided in their local area”.
More information, and the eligibility application is available. You can also contact your local school, nursery, playgroup or childminder for further details.