Free childcare on offer for Armed Forces families

MILITARY parents will be granted free childcare from September to help them enjoy a “thriving family life” alongside their careers.

Open to eligible service families with children aged four to 11, the Wraparound Childcare scheme will provide up to 20 hours of childcare per week before and after school in term time.

It is forecast that more than 20,000 youngsters will benefit from the scheme which will save serving personnel about £3,000 per child each year.

The initiative, which has already been trialled by 1,800 children, will also give a helping hand to families who need to find new homes and schools when they relocate for work.

Ben Wallace, the Defence Secretary, said: “Our Armed Forces personnel sacrifice a great deal in the service of their country and whether it is providing flexible working or accommodation options, I am determined they feel supported in their family life.”

And Cpl Vicki Taylor of the RAF said families agree it is a “fantastic” scheme which has given parents more “quality time” with their children.