Thanks to Liberal Democrats 2,628 of the poorest toddlers in Lancashire will benefit from 15 hours free childcare a week from this September, an investment of £2,762 per child.

This is in addition to the £100m investment in capital spending for additional nursery places announced by Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minster, Nick Clegg, last year.

Nick Clegg and Neil Darby today urged parents in Preston to find out if their two-year-old is eligible.

Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are more at risk of falling behind their classmates in school, with evidence showing that differences emerge early on in life.

That’s why the Coalition Government is delivering on a Liberal Democrat commitment to additional early years’ education, providing 15 hours of free childcare a week to around 130,000 two-year-olds from lower income backgrounds across England. The first of these eligible toddlers will have their second birthday this month.

Commenting, Neil Darby said:

“Liberal Democrats want to create a fairer society by making sure every child has the best possible start in life.

“Studies show that investment in early years’ education makes a significant difference to a child’s life chances and will help children reach their full potential.

“I want to make sure that no child in Preston misses out so I’d encourage all parents to find out if their toddler is eligible.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg, said:

“High quality childcare can make a huge difference to children at the start of their lives. By getting things right from the off, they are much more likely to be ready when they start school.

“If your son or daughter is turning two this April or later, they may be eligible for 15 hours free childcare a week. So make sure you check with your local nursery or local authority to find out if you’re entitled.”