AM praises positive impact of Welsh Government Childcare Offer in Wrexham

Latest research suggests the Welsh Labour Government’s flagship Childcare Offer is making a real difference to the lives of low income families.

Wrexham’s Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the findings that suggest the ambitious policy is having a positive impact, resulting in more families having money in their pockets as well as improving their overall wellbeing.

An independent evaluation found that 84% of people have more disposable income, 56% have had more opportunities to increase earning and 45% have had more opportunities to train, learn and develop.

The Childcare Offer provides 30 hours a week of government-funded early education and childcare to working parents of 3 and 4 year olds for up to 48 weeks of the year.

To ensure parents access the Childcare Offer, the Welsh Government has invested millions of pounds creating new childcare settings and refurbishing existing facilities.

Lesley Griffiths AM recently visited the Homestead Nursey near Gresford where approximately £200,000 of Welsh Government funding has helped the facility expand and increase capacity.

Ms Griffiths toured the ongoing developments and said: “After investing more than £200 million on one of their key commitments, it’s clear the Welsh Labour Government’s ground-breaking Childcare Offer is making a positive and tangible difference to parents’ lives in Wrexham.”

“Families are experiencing the benefits, as highlighted by the latest survey, but childcare providers like the Homestead Nursery are also reaping the rewards and the local economy in general is profiting from residents having more disposable income.”

“The facilities at the Homestead are second to none and Rachel, Kim and their wonderful staff do a fantastic job.  It was a pleasure meeting lots of happy children and I look forward to visiting again and once all the work is complete.”