£60,000 aid for disabled children

OLDHAM council will be given almost £60,000 to help disabled children access childcare, the Government has announced.

Children’s Secretary Ed Balls and Children’s Minister Dawn Primarolo said a £12.5 million programme will be introduced across the country following successful pilot schemes.

The Disabled Children’s Access to Childcare Programme will provide parents with advice and support when choosing services for their child. It is expected Oldham council will be given at least £59,000 to offer help.

Mr Balls said: “We want every child to have the opportunity to be happy and do well, no matter what their background is or the challenges that they face. I know from talking to parents of disabled children how important short breaks can be, both for the children and their families, and this funding backs up our commitment. Every child matters and that means every disabled child matters too.”

The Department for Children, Schools and Families will hold a National Take-Up Conference in February, featuring workshops run by representatives from the current pilot schemes to promote good practice.

Ms Primarolo said: “Understandably, some parents of disabled children are apprehensive about using childcare because of the unique and special requirements that their child has.

“That’s why I want to make sure that all families have access to high quality support which is most suitable for them.

“The Disabled Children’s Access to Childcare Programme will help to improve the lives and outcomes for disabled children.

“It will give parents the information and choice they need and staff the specialist training they require to make a real difference.

“We have already seen from the 10 pilot areas the benefits that this programme brings, with more disabled children having access to childcare.”