CHILDCARE EXPANSION IN MORAY is being boosted with Moray Council now inviting partner providers to apply for grants available for infrastructure improvements and staff development.
The cash is part of a wider early learning and childcare programme, with up to £80,000 being made available to providers with funded places operating in non-Council owned properties.
Criteria under which grants can be obtained include start-up, increasing capacity, outdoor space, family spaces and general accommodation improvements or extensions.
In addition there is £20,000 earmarked for those seeking assistance with staff training and development as the early learning and childcare expansion rolls out.
Providers can apply for up to £25,000 each, fully-funded by the Scottish Government, which will help them prepare for the increase in funded hours on offer for three and four years-olds and eligible two year-olds, which changes from 600 hours a year to 1140 hours a year starting from August 2018.
Chair of Moray Council’s Children and Young Peoples’ Services Committee, Councillor Tim Eagle, is urging partner providers to consider applying for a grant.
He said: “We’re inviting applications until 31 March 2018 – by investing £100,000 in our local childcare settings, we’re helping to futureproof these services for the benefit of thousands of children in Moray, and expanding employment opportunities within the early learning and childcare professions.”
Application forms can be downloaded from Moray Council’s website and further information can be requested by contacting the education and social care department at Moray Council on by EMail to educationandsocialcare@moray.gov.uk or calling 01343 563374.