Chapter 2 - more accessible early education and childcare
We know that children who attend early education have a better chance of reaching their full potential. This chapter is all about making childcare easier to find, more affordable, and available for every family who is eligible so parents can work, study, and thrive.
Helping families find childcare
It can be confusing to know what's available and what you're entitled to. We want to make it simple.
What are we doing?
- Sharing clear information about funded childcare offers and how to apply.
- Promoting government schemes so families don't miss out.
- Keeping the Lincolnshire County Council website up to date with easy-to-understand guidance.
- Providing a Family Services Directory so you can find childcare near you.
- Making sure providers share clear details about their services and costs.
- Training professionals to help parents access their entitlements.
- Parents of children with SEND understand the additional funding and support available to access childcare.
What this means:
- Parents will know what help you can get.
- Finding childcare will be easier.
- Children with additional needs will have the right support.
Making childcare affordable
Childcare costs can be a big worry for families. We're working to reduce costs and make things clearer.
What are we doing?
- Funding providers to deliver government childcare entitlements.
- Making sure any extra charges are clear and optional.
- Helping providers stay sustainable so they can keep fees fair.
- Requiring clear invoices so parents know what they're paying for.
- Increasing funding for children with SEND.
What this means:
- Families could save around £7,500 a year.
- Flexible options if parents want extra hours or services.
- Clear, itemised bills—no hidden costs.
- More parents able to return to work or increase hours.
More childcare places where they're needed
We want childcare to be available in the right places, especially in rural and coastal areas where this can be harder to access close to home or work.
What are we doing?
- Checking every year where childcare is available and where gaps exist.
- Publishing reports so families know what's happening.
- Working with providers to create more places where needed.
- Supporting providers with training and fair wages to keep staff.
- Recruiting more childminders in rural areas.
- Making sure there are enough places for children with SEND.
What this means for you:
- Easier access to childcare near home or work.
- More choice of high-quality settings.
- Inclusive places for children with additional needs.