Recently, the government announced a new childcare funding scheme for working parents.
The first phase of this begins in April 2024 when parents can claim up to 15 hours of funding the term after their child turns two.
However, this has not been well advertised by the government and it has been left up to individual childcare settings to promote this new scheme.
Treasure Island Playgroup, a preschool based in Popley, has organised an open day on Saturday, February 17 from 10am until midday. Staff will be on hand to answer questions and can run through the process of applying for funding with prospective parents.
There are an estimated 700 families eligible for the new funding within Basingstoke and demand is expected to outstrip the number of spaces available within nurseries, preschools and childminders.
We therefore urge parents to apply for funding and reserve their spaces as soon as possible. To book a place at our open day please email enquiries.treasureisland@hotmail.com
Kim Farthing
Treasure Island Playgroup
Popley Fields Community Centre
Send letters by email to newsdesk@basingstokegazette.co.uk or by post to Editor, Basingstoke Gazette, Absolutely Offices, Lutyens Cl, Lychpit, Basingstoke RG24 8AG.
All letters and e-mails must include full names and addresses (anonymous letters will not be published), although these details may be withheld from publication, on request.
Letters of 300 words or less will be given priority, although all are subject to editing for reasons of clarity, space, or legal requirements. We reserve the right to edit letters.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here