Mayor delivers childcare grant support

A regeneration boss says she is “blazing a trail” in “tackling child poverty head on” after making good on her manifesto commitment to help parents in the North East with the high cost of childcare.

North East mayor Kim McGuinness has launched a £6800 childcare grant aimed at supporting parents in County Durham, including areas such as Bishop Auckland, Spennymoor and Newton Aycliffe. 

The grant, prioritising single parents with children under five, helps bridge the gap for those struggling with childcare costs while working, training, or seeking to increase their hours.

Mayor McGuinness said: “From day one of my term as mayor, I’ve made it my mission to make our region the home of real opportunity, and that means tackling child poverty head on. 

“A year on, we are delivering for parents in the North East. 

“The crippling cost of childcare is holding too many families back, and that’s why we’re using our powers and investment to break down the barriers to opportunity, so parents can find work and training, and help give their children the best start in life.” 

The initiative, the first of its kind by an elected metro mayor, forms part of the mayor’s strategy to tackle child poverty in the region, with plans for further expansion across the North East by 2026.

Mayor McGuinness added: “The Mayor’s Childcare Grant will be tested in Durham, reviewed to strengthen the offer and rolled out to help more parents as quickly as possible. 

“We’re blazing a trail, using our investment to tackle the priorities that matter to local people and showing the difference we can make to families’ lives.” 

Councillor Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council and portfolio holder for education, inclusion and skills at the North East Combined Authority, added: “This initiative is a vital step towards alleviating child poverty in our region. 

“By providing essential childcare support, we are empowering parents to pursue work and training opportunities, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive and build a brighter future.” 

Martyn Stenton, head of early help, inclusion and vulnerable children at Durham County Council, added: “We are committed to doing as much as we can to support families across County Durham. 

“We are therefore delighted to be working with the North East Combined Authority to develop this new way of helping parents and carers to meet childcare costs and pursue employment and training opportunities.”

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