Families in Gillingham & Rainham to Gain from Lib Dem Child Care Plans

Plans announced by Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg to expand free child care have been welcomed by Paul Chaplin, Parliamentary Candidate for Gillingham & Rainham

If Nick Clegg's Party continues in Government after the General Election, they will provide 15 hours a week of free childcare to all children of working parents aged between 9 months and two years, saving a typical family £2,670 a year. They will also give all two-year olds 15 hours free childcare per week, saving a family £2,450 a year.

"Liberal Democrats recognise that pressure on working parents to budget for their childcare costs doesn't just start when their child is two years old," said Paul. "That's why we plan to introduce measures that will save families money.

"Over the last five years, we've made it one of our biggest priorities in this Government to ensure that every child -whatever their background or circumstances - gets an equal shot at the successful future they deserve.

"We want to build on that progress. So, in the next Parliament, the Liberal Democrats will start by providing 15 hours a week of free early years education to every family with a two year old.

"The Liberal Democrats will make 15 hours of free early years education available to all working parents from the end of their paid parental leave at 9 months right through until their child is 2, and the existing provision begins.

"We are the only party with the clear commitment and plan, backed with the funding needed, to make it happen. We want a stronger economy and fairer society for Britain, where every child - whatever their circumstances or background - gets the best possible start in life.

"This will be a great help to young families in Gillingham & Rainham, saving them money when household budgetsare tight, and helping people to get back into work."

Key Children's Policy Successes from LibDems in Government

The following are key Liberal Democrat achievements in government on children's policy, in addition to those outlined above.

• Pupil Premium - £2.5 billion extra to schools to help the poorest children get the best start in life
• Free school meals for children aged 5 - 7 years old, improving their health and saving families typically over £400 a year;
• School budgets protected against cuts.
• Priority Schools Rebuilding Programme - another £2billion announced in February, allowing a further 266 schools to be rebuilt.