Parents in Swindon have stepped forward to help others get the childcare they need.

Children aged two, whose parents or carers are in receipt of any of a number of benefits are eligible for 15 hours of funded care in pre-schools, nurseries, playgroups or with childminders.

But negotiating the rules of eligibility can be difficult – and Swindon Borough Council has created a network of 'parent champions' to help others.

People who have successfully applied for the funding can be trained to and spread the word with other parents in their community.

The council’s cabinet member for education and skills Russell Holland said: “The council’s early years team has done a great job in recent years of reaching out to parents and carers to make sure they are accessing these free hours and I'd encourage anyone who thinks they may qualify to get in touch so we can help them find their child a place which fits in with their needs.”

The volunteer champions are supported by the council to use the skills and experience they gain to go on to access paid employment.

To become a parent champion, please contact the early years team by email on earlyeducation@swindon.gov.uk.