Working families in the borough are benefitting from 30 hours of free childcare from the government which has been granted to children across the country.

New figures suggest 830 Harrow children have already received the free entitlement which launched nationally on September 1, 2017, doubling the former 15 hour entitlement introduced in 2010.

Parents of three and four-year-olds could save around £5,000 per year per child, and an independent evaluation of pilot sites demonstrated the free 30 hours could ‘improve family finances’ and support a ‘better work-life balance’ for parents.

Conservative councillor and member of Harrow East, Bob Blackman MP, said: “For many parents, being able to afford good-quality childcare is essential to working and supporting their families.

It’s not just an issue, but the issue, and I know from speaking with families in Harrow what a difference 30 free hours is making. Reliable childcare gives parents peace of mind and makes day to day life that bit easier.”

According to Mr Blackman’s office, beneficiaries of the scheme have reported improved family finances and improved work-life balance. There are now nearly 294,000 children in 30 hour places in England.

By 2020, the government plans to spend £6 billion to assist parents with the cost of childcare, and in addition to the current 30 hours care, funds 15 hours of free child care for disadvantage two-year-olds and supports parents through tax free childcare.

Low income families could also benefit from an increase to the national living wage and personal allowance both taking effect in April.