South Thanet MP Stephen Ladyman joined youngsters to celebrate the extension of childcare for families with young children at an event in Parliament organised by shopworkers’ union, Usdaw.

Steve discussed how the family had benefited from services such as Sure Start, free nursery places and tax credits.

Tom Offeh’s daughter Elizabeth is 3 and spends her afternoons at nursery at the Children’s Centre at the local primary school. The facilities were set up with Sure Start funding.

"Elizabeth really enjoys her time at the nursery. She is there for 2 ½ hours in the afternoons and it’s great for her to socialise with the other children and learn new things. The fact that her place is free is an added bonus."

Steve said:

"This Government has put in place a number of measures for the children who need it most. The 3,000 Sure Start Children’s Centres Labour have set up directly benefit millions of children, including those who attend Newlands and Newington Children’s Centres in South Thanet. It is tragic that the Tories have pledged to cut 20% of Sure Start’s funding, putting the future of every Centre at risk."

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, added:

"Many of our members are working parents who struggle to find suitable childcare for their children. The Sure Start Children’s Centres offer high quality childcare. Childcare Tax Credits and free part-time places help to make childcare affordable for all parents so they can go to work secure in the knowledge that their children are being well looked after."

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