SNP will deliver revolution in childcare if it wins election, says Jenny Gilruth

The SNP will deliver a “revolution in childcare” if it wins the Scottish Parliament elections, the party has promised.

The Education Secretary said her party would extend support to every family in the country for children from nine months to the end of primary school

Under the plans, Jenny Gilruth said families would benefit from between £1,400 and about £11,000 in support.

The minister will be joined by Culture Secretary Angus Robertson on Friday during a visit to Edinburgh charity, The Yard.

The SNP described it as a “revolution in childcare”. Ms Gilruth said: “The SNP has transformed childcare in Scotland since coming to office with our current provision saving families around £6,000 per year.

“But we want to go further and finish the job. We’ve listened to what families told us about some of the challenges they face, particularly during the summer months.

“Parents don’t stop working during the summer holidays, so neither will our childcare offer: year-round childcare, 52 weeks a year, right until children leave primary school. (Scottish Labour leader) Anas Sarwar is offering families two weeks, we are offering 52.”

Ms Gilruth promised that “no family will be left behind under the SNP”, saying they were set to benefit from “£1,400 up to over £11,000 dependent on need”, before adding: “That’s what an SNP government on Scotland’s side will deliver.”

She said: “That is our transformative offer to Scottish families and it is by far and away the most substantial childcare offer at this election – this is the type of Scotland we will build and only a vote for the SNP can secure that future.

“Under John Swinney’s leadership, the SNP is resolutely focused on the priorities of the people of Scotland: improving the NHS, supporting people with the cost of living and delivering the fresh start of independence.”