Crewe and Nantwich MP, Dr Kieran Mullan, has welcomed increased funding for childcare providers in Cheshire East, following a government announcement.

On Wednesday 12 July, the government announced childcare payments for children aged three to four will rise by 6.8 per cent in the borough.

The hourly rate for two-year-olds will also receive a significant boost of 32 per cent.

Crewe and Nantwich MP, Dr Kieran Mullan (Wikimedia Commons).

This funding aims to support the childcare sector under major government reforms, including the goal of providing 30 hours of free childcare to all children under four by 2025. 

Delighted by the government announcement, Dr Mullan told Nub News: "Many parents want to get back to work, earning more money for their families.

"However, childcare costs can, too often, be a barrier – preventing a return to the workforce from being affordable. 

"By supporting and expanding our childcare sector, it means that more families will be able to rely on affordable childcare and help them ease the transition back into work."  

By making childcare more affordable and accessible, the funding aims to enable more parents to work, allowing them more financial security.

Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, added: "Today is a great step forward as we deliver on the largest ever expansion of childcare which will be transformational for working families and will help grow our economy. 

Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan (Wikimedia Commons).

"I want childcare to be truly affordable and available when and where parents need it. 

"This initial investment of over £200 million will go a long way in supporting the fantastic early years sector to prepare for the expansion of free childcare hours available to parents next year." 

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