Early years providers offered £20k childcare boost

A funding scheme has been launched to help Alderney's childcare providers improve their facilities and support more families on the island.

The Economic Development Committee has set aside £20,000 for early years businesses.

The money aims to boost local childcare options, which the States of Alderney has marked as a priority in its Island Plan.

The scheme is open to existing providers and to anyone planning to set up a new early years business. Applicants will need to submit a proposal and supporting documents.

Stuart Clark, chair of the committee, said: "Availability of sufficient quality childcare is an important aspect of our community development.

"We are aware that small businesses which provide childcare may not have ready access to funds to invest in improving and extending their offer.

"By making some funding available from the Economic Development Reserve, we hope that we can support providers by removing the financial barrier to development and improve the support available to parents and families."

Forms can be collected from the General Office at Island Hall. They are also available online.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].