FAMILIES IN MIDLOTHIAN AND EAST LOTHIAN TO RECEIVE 1140 HOURS OF CHILDCARE FROM AUGUST

Families in Midlothian and East Lothian will be eligible to receive 1140 of free childcare from August 2021, following an announcement from the SNP Scottish Government.
 
Children’s Minister Maree Todd made the announcement today after the rollout of expanded childcare was paused to allow local authorities to put all their efforts into tackling COVID-19.
 
Parents are being urged to apply now for childcare if they need it in time for August next year.
 
Commenting, Colin Beattie said:
 
“I know the impact the pandemic has had on families in Midlothian and East Lothian and this announcement today will be welcome news for them.
 
“The Scottish Government was well on-track to deliver the 1140 hours duty in April, but it was necessary to put a pause, not a stop, on the plans in order for councils to put their resources into fighting coronavirus.
 
“Not only will the expansion be good news for parents, but it also opens up employment opportunities as we look recruit more childminders to be able to provide the 1140 hours.
 
“I would encourage all parents to apply for free childcare as soon as possible so they can access the services they are entitled to.”