MORE than 1,100 children in Swindon are benefitting from the government’s 30 hours free childcare policy.

The offer saves working families around £5,000 per year per child and saw over 200,000 children benefit nationally in its first term.

It’s backed by a record investment of £6 billion per year in childcare, which includes an extra £1 billion per year by 2020 to deliver the free entitlements.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson welcomed the findings.

He said: “For many parents, being able to afford good-quality childcare is essential to working and supporting their families. It’s not just an issue, but the issue, and I know from speaking with families in Swindon what a difference 30 free hours is making.

“Reliable childcare gives parents peace of mind and makes day to day life that bit easier.

He added: “We are committed to supporting hardworking local families. Over 90,000 people in Swindon have received an income tax cut, whilst the lowest earners have been taken out of paying any income tax altogether. Our National Living Wage is also increasing again this April.”

It has been shown that high quality childcare not only helps children get the best start in life, but also supports many parents who want or need to work.

Beneficiaries of the scheme have reported improved family finances as well as a better work-life balance.

Mr Tomlinson said: “We want to help people with the cost of living. That’s why this government is spending more money on childcare than ever before, helping parents to balance their lives.”