Dorset County Council has been recognised for its commitment to a programme providing free childcare to parents in need.

The authority was runner-up in the ‘30 Hours Team’ award at this year’s national Childcare Works Awards.

The award recognises the work of local authorities in providing and promoting the national ‘30 free hours’ childcare scheme, which enables eligible parents of three and four-year olds to continue to work by providing 30 hours’ free childcare a week.

Those eligible include all those in work and earning at least the national minimum wage. However, if earnings are above a certain threshold, or if the child doesn’t live with the parent, then the parent is not eligible for the free childcare.

DCC triumphed among 34 local authorities nominated for the award, and was recognised for its whole-team approach, commitment, effective and efficient local delivery and ability to work in partnership with other stakeholders.

Several county council teams were involved in the successful delivery of the 30 free hours scheme, and the award was accepted by Liz Curtis-Jones from the Early Years and Childcare Service and Tina Ironside from the Family Information Service.

Tina said: “We were proud to pick up this award on behalf of all the superb teams at the county council who got behind this agenda.

“We are passionate about the 30 free hours scheme, which gives a few thousand Dorset parents more cash in their pockets, so they can afford to work and provide for their family.”

Councillor Deborah Croney, DCC’s spokesman on education, learning and skills, said: “I am delighted that the county council has been recognised for the hard work and dedication of our teams, and their collaborative cross-department working.

“We are proud of their commitment and achievements.

“The 30 free hours scheme has a positive impact on families, taking huge pressures off their finances.

“It will benefit children and families, both now and in the future.”

Parents can find further information on dorsetforyou.gov.uk/30hours, or by emailing familyinfo@dorsetcc.gov.uk or calling 01305 221066.