A grant scheme in North Tyneside is proving successful in getting lone parents into work and boosting local providers' occupancy levels. Since 2005 we have offered funding, in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, that aims to promote the use of formal childcare within the borough. In certain circumstances the Sure Start Strategic Partnership (SSSP) will meet the cost of childcare for a limited period in order to provide assistance to those either working towards or returning to work.
Who Benefits?
Lone parents are being assisted in returning to work, children are benefiting from formal childcare and childcare providers are receiving additional business. While the final choice of setting lies with the parents, all forms of registered childcare are eligible to participate.
Victoria Solomon, nursery manager of Just Learning in Newcastle, praises the system. 'We approve of schemes that provide support for parents, enabling them to access quality settings. It is also positive from a business perspective as it boosts our occupancy levels and helps achieve sustainability,' she says.
How Does the Scheme Work?
Lone Parents advisors within Jobcentre Plus talk to clients to establish whether they meet the criteria. Once approved, the parent chooses their preferred setting, which is contacted about a booking. The parent is given an introductory letter from Jobcentre Plus confirming the maximum amount of support agreed in financial terms. Separate notification is sent by the SSSP direct to the provider confirming the grant award and outlining how to claim payment.
The responsibility for paying for additional sessions rests with the parent. Responsibility for registration, agreeing mutually acceptable times for providing care and the health and safety of the child or children remains with the provider, if they decide to accept the booking.
An evaluation of the project saw 86 per cent of parents staying in work after 12 months and 69 per cent of participating providers stating their income had increased as a direct result.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For details of how we administer the scheme, e-mail lynn.bryden@northtyneside.gov.uk.
