£1.5m to expand childcare access for families most at risk of poverty

The children’s minister has announced £1.5 million in funding to help expand childcare in Scotland.

Natalie Don-Innes said the fund, to be split between seven organisations over two years, will help families most at risk of poverty.

The groups will use funding to deliver free or subsidised breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, term-time and holiday childcare, as well as specialist provision for children with complex additional support needs.

Ms Don-Innes said: “Since 2020, we have provided over £4.5 million through the Access to Childcare Fund to support projects delivering activities, childcare, food and family support.

“Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s defining mission, and we know what a difference access to affordable school-age childcare can make for families that need it most.

“The projects receiving Access to Childcare Funding over the next two years are demonstrating the important role that school-age childcare services play in supporting children’s health, wellbeing and relationships, and in enabling more parents and carers to balance caring for their children with work commitments, thereby helping increase household income.”

Support, Help, and Integration in Perthshire (Ship), a childcare provider in Perthshire supporting those with additional support needs and disabilities, will receive £135,000 this year and £138,000 next year.

Nicola Schelbert, general manager at the organisation, said: “Ship provides essential support for children and young people aged from five to 18 with complex needs, delivering youth clubs, Saturday clubs, after-school and holiday clubs.

“Access to Childcare Funding supports our after-school clubs and childcare spaces at our holiday club, which enables parents to work or take respite.

“Families we work with tell us that without Ship, continuing employment would be impossible, which would have a negative impact on their family’s wellbeing.

“This vital service strengthens families and ensures children receive the support they need.”