Sylvia Heal

Labour Party | Halesowen and Rowley Regis

Local MP backs extension in free nursery entitlement

Sylvia Heal, Member of Parliament for Halesowen and Rowley Regis has welcomed the Governments announcement of an extra £340 million to extend free nursery entitlement, which will be increased from 12.5 hours to 15 hours each week for every 3 and 4 year old by 2010.

Today around 7000 children in both Sandwell and Dudley benefit from free high-quality early education, early year’s provision has proven to help enhance children’s educational achievement as well as their life chances.

The funding announced is in addition to the £3bn already provided each year for early education entitlement, with over £2m a day being provided through the tax credits system to help families with childcare costs.

Sylvia Heal MP said: “Over the last ten years we have seen childcare places double to 1.3 million places. I am pleased to welcome the Governments pledge of extra money and a commitment to increase free nursery entitlement. Free nursery entitlement has helped thousands of families balance their work and home life through the extension of free, flexible childcare”.

Sylvia was pleased to be able to visit Temple Meadow Primary School for the opening of their New Day Nursery “New Beginnings” which will provide care for children aged 2-5. Mrs Heal was impressed with the newly built facilities the nursery is offering. Staff at the nursery are keen to help working parents by being as flexible as they can be.