Increase in childcare take up

Devon has seen a significant increase in the number of two-year-olds accessing free childcare and early learning thanks to the County Council’s 2gether funding programme.

Since September, over 2,000 children have been offered a funded place at an approved childcare setting, but there are still 600 children who could be eligible for a free place this Spring term who are yet to apply. The 2gether funding was extended to children whose family receive certain benefits, have a household income under £16,190, or if the child has a disability, special educational need or if they are adopted or placed under a residency order.

The 2gether funding scheme helps improve more children’s learning and development, giving them the opportunity to make new friends and learn through play in one of the county’s specially approved childcare settings. These include day nurseries, school nurseries, child minders and pre schools.

Councillor James McInnes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Skills, explains: "2gether funding has been making a difference to children in Devon for over five years. This year we had more funding available and so want to make sure that every two-year-old who is eligible takes advantage. Research has shown that high quality part-time early years education helps give children a great start and provides them with a solid foundation for the future."

Free childcare places are available for children to start the term after their second birthday. Anyone wanting to find out if they are entitled to apply should visit www.devon.gov.uk/2gether or telephone 0345 155 1013.

Applications can be made online and a letter will be sent out confirming the funding decision, this letter needs to be taken to the chosen childcare provider to make the childcare arrangements.

To search online for Ofsted approved childcare providers near you, visit www.devonfsd.info

Once approved the 2gether funding lasts until the child is three and becomes eligible for Early Years Entitlement, even if the financial circumstances change.

Find out if you are eligible and apply today at www.devon.gov.uk/2gether