A top education leader today thanked those who work in early years childcare across Dudley borough for their dedication throughout the pandemic.

The parents and carers of more than 4,000 children, aged from birth to four years, currently utilise 262 early years and childcare settings in Dudley borough including nurseries, childminders and school based early years provision.

At the beginning of the first lockdown earlier this year, over 50 per cent of childcare providers remained open to provide much needed support to frontline and key workers as well as the most vulnerable children. This figure rose to over 70 per cent during the summer.

The government has now asked that they remain open to all children and since September, more than 96 per cent of providers are offering childcare services to the community. Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children and young people, said:

“We all know that the early years of our children’s lives play a key role in shaping who they will be and helping them to prepare for school.

“Childcare workers have continued to show strength and resilience during the pandemic and I would like to thank everyone in the sector for the support they have given to our communities.

“As well as maintaining the health, happiness and wellbeing of our young children, they have also provided parents and carers with much needed childcare, which has been critical in the national effort to fight the pandemic.

“Dudley Council has now reinstated our Covid Support Line which will help people during the lockdown, the Christmas holiday break and beyond.

“Families will be able to get the advice and support they need as well as help with essential food supplies. Together we continue to create a bright future for all our children.”

People can call the Covid-19 helpline on 0300 3302 152 and can keep updated on the council’s latest response to covid-19 at dudley.gov.uk/coronavirus.