Starting in September 2024, families in Walsall can benefit from a new initiative aimed at making childcare more affordable and accessible. The introduction of these new childcare codes marks a significant step forward in supporting parents and guardians, ensuring that children have access to quality early education and care.
Walsall Council has announced that eligible families can now apply for these childcare codes, which will provide up to 30 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 3 to 4 years old. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support working families and enhance early childhood development.
How to Apply
Parents and guardians can apply for the childcare codes through Walsall Council’s official website or at designated community centres throughout the town. The application process involves an online form, requiring basic information about the family’s income and employment status. Once approved, families will receive a unique code that can be presented to participating childcare providers to access the free hours.
To be eligible, both parents must be working (or the sole parent in a single-parent family), and each must earn a minimum equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage. However, families where one parent is in receipt of benefits related to disability or caring responsibilities may also qualify.
Benefits of the Scheme
The introduction of these childcare codes is expected to have numerous positive impacts on the Walsall community. By reducing childcare costs, parents and guardians can reallocate their resources towards other essential needs, thereby improving the overall quality of life for their families. Furthermore, access to early childhood education has been shown to significantly enhance children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, laying a strong foundation for future learning and success.
Local childcare providers are enthusiastic about the new scheme, anticipating an increase in enrolments. “We are excited to welcome more families to our nursery,” said Sarah Williams, director of Little Stars Nursery. “The free hours will allow more children to benefit from our educational programs, giving them the best start in life.”
You can check the eligibility requirements here > https://tinyurl.com/j7m5kvx3
Community Support and Engagement
In addition to the 30 hours of free childcare, the council is also exploring partnerships with local businesses and organisations to provide additional support services for families, such as parenting workshops and financial planning assistance.