Region to benefit from share of funding to help families

Dumfries & Galloway will receive £200,000 to support a joint initiative between the local Council and the Scottish Pre-School Play Association aimed at improving parental involvement in their children’s development.

Dr McLeod commented:

“I am delighted that the region is benefitting from a share of the Scottish Government’s Early Years Change Fund.

“The Scottish Government wants families to have the help they need. That is why it will provide more free nursery care – saving families £700 a year per child while the UK Government cuts £700 from family benefits. The intention is also to make nursery care more flexible. By next year, councils must ask what parents want and offer a choice. Together with the extra hours, this could mean two days a week instead of a few hours a morning or afternoon, helping parents into a job or training.

“However, some families need more direct support. This could be a source of advice on parenting or a neutral place to allow parents and children to spend time together. This funding will help charities across Scotland provide exactly that type of targeted help.

“This announcement also shows how decisions taken in Scotland are giving Scottish families the help they need. It will help harness the expertise of those working in charities to help local councils deliver for families and maximise Scotland’s future economic prosperity.”