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Newport toddlers off to a Flying Start thanks to new funding

Childcare centres in Newport are set to receive a £71,500 facelift, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty, Lesley Griffiths, announced yesterday.

The capital funding is being invested in the Welsh Government’s flagship Flying Start scheme, which helps families in some of Wales’ most deprived communities.

Flying Start settings across the county will receive new furniture and equipment, while a secure outdoor play area will be created at the Monnow Flying Start Centre. The funding will also upgrade and improve the building and outdoor play area at Malpas Court Flying Start Centre.

Over £3 million capital funding for Flying Start has been awarded to Newport since 2012-13 as part of the Welsh Government’s drive to double the number of children benefitting from the early years scheme across Wales from 18,000 to 36,000.

Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty, Lesley Griffiths, said yesterday:

“We are working hard to ensure children and families living in some of our most disadvantaged communities are given the best possible start in life.

"We have invested over £3 million in capital projects to support the expansion of Flying Start in Newport. The programme is progressing well, with more than 2,500 children expected to benefit from the scheme across the county this year.

“The additional funding of £71,500 I have announced today will provide high quality, safe and secure facilities. We know how important access to outdoor space and play opportunities are to children’s well-being and development, so I am also pleased the funding will support the creation and improvement of outdoor play areas.”

Councillor Deb Davies, Newport City Council’s cabinet member for skills and work, said:

“Flying Start is an important part of our programme targeting poverty in the city. We want to help families out of the cycle of deprivation and making sure children have the best possible start while helping their parents into employment is vital to achieving our aim.

“I would like to thank the Welsh Government for its support for Flying Start in Newport and this additional funding which will enhance the play opportunities for children in our centres.”

The Welsh Government’s Flying Start programme provides free part-time quality childcare for 2-3 year olds, parenting support, an enhanced health visitor service and help for early language development.

 

Channel website: http://gov.wales

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