Kids' Clubs Mean Business programme

Prospective providers looking to set up out-of-school childcare in disadvantaged areas can access cash for training and support from a new scheme run by Kids' Clubs Network (KCN). The Kids' Clubs Mean Business programme has been set up with 227,000 from the Phoenix Fund, a Government scheme to encourage entrepreneurship in disadvantaged areas. It has been piloted in the London borough of Lambeth and will be introduced around the country with seminars, publications and best practice examples. Nigel Griffiths, minister for small business, said, 'Many people find the idea of starting a childcare business attractive, and there is unprecedented support now available from the Government.' Anne Longfield, KCN chief executive, said, 'There are some excellent examples of childcare entrepreneurs around the country, who have worked with communities to deliver the affordable childcare they need. Yet they are still too few and far between and meanwhile there are many areas of disadvantage where childcare is in high demand.' To find out more, contact KCN on 020 7512 2112.