WEST Devon childcare groups could be in line for cash grants, made available in order to support and develop childcare provision in the area.
The grants are to support existing groups and to aid the development of new projects which aim to provide childcare places; grants are also available for family support projects.
The funding comes from three sources. The European Social Fund is designed to help existing services, particularly pre-schools, to expand from early education to full day care provision.
The Devon County Council fund is available to support and sustain other provisions, such as occasional playschemes and family workshops.
The Department of Education and Skills fund has a small amount of money to use to promote the inclusion of children with special needs.
Lorraine Barlow, the Partnership Development Worker for West Devon, said the grants were designed for groups which meet local needs and which were largely voluntary in nature.
'Our aim is to expand the number of affordable, quality childcare places across West Devon and we hope to receive applications from a wide range of projects including pre-schools, play schemes and after school clubs,' she said.
For detailed funding criteria and an application form please contact Lorraine Barlow, Devon early years development and childcare partnership, Social Services, Abbey Rise, Whitchurch Road, Tavistock, PL19 9AS. Tel 01822 614121.
The closing date for applications is Monday, November 12.