By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight Council is set to receive much-needed support aimed at giving children the best start in life, thanks to nearly £1 million in funding through the Government’s Start for Life programme and Family Hubs initiative.
The financial boost is part of a nationwide investment in early years services under Labour’s Plan for Change.
The Isle of Wight Council is expected to benefit from at least £956,600, which will support a range of services, including pregnancy care, infant feeding advice, parenting classes, and baby and toddler groups. The services are designed to bridge the gap for families from pregnancy until children are two years old, with over 80 per cent of parents reportedly struggling to access early support in recent years.
Richard Quigley, MP for Isle of Wight West, welcomed the funding, calling it a significant step forward for the community.
“I am absolutely delighted that families and children across the Island will benefit from this investment. Families elected a Labour Government to ensure every child has the best possible start in life, and this funding demonstrates our commitment to delivering on that promise,” Mr Quigley said.
The initiative aims to improve access to antenatal classes, healthcare visitors, and affordable childcare with total funding of £57 million going to 75 local authorities with high levels of deprivation.
Final funding details will be confirmed in the coming months.
