A CASH injection of £269,991 is set to aid nurseries, childminders and other early years providers in Poole and Dorset help three and four-year-olds from disadvantaged families.

From April 2015 the Early Years Pupil Premium, which has been backed by groups like Barnados, 4Children and the Child Poverty Action Group, will mean extra money to make sure every child gets a fair start.

“By investing £84,954 in Poole and £185,037 in Dorset to help the most disadvantaged three and four-year-olds, Liberal Democrats are ensuring that children are getting the best possible start in life,” said Cllr Vikki Slade, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Mid Dorset and North Poole.

“All the evidence shows that helping children as early as possible is key to making sure they do not fall behind.

“That is why this announcement is fantastic news for children.

“This is all part of creating a fairer society and opportunity for everyone,” she said.

Nurseries and schools will be free to choose how to spend the money, which is part of a £50m government pot.

Other Lib Dem-led changes to help families include shared parental leave, tax free childcare, free school meals and a pupil premium for school age children.

Liberal Democrat Schools Minister David Laws said: “Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, whatever their background.

“Liberal Democrats in government have already extended free early years education for all children in Poole.

“Now this cash boost will mean extra support for those children who need it most,” he added.