Welshpool flying start centre to receive £290k Welsh Government funding boost

A total of £292,300 being made available to the Open Door Family Centre, at the former Oldford Primary in Welshpool, to support their "Flying Start" programme.

Flying Start is the Welsh Government’s flagship early years programme which plays a crucial role in delivery Welsh Labour’s anti-poverty agenda in Wales.

A further £820,000 has been awarded to flying start provision at Priory Church in Wales Primary School in Brecon

Flying Start supports families living in some of the most disadvantaged communities across the country. It offers 12 and a half hours of high quality childcare a week for 2-3 year olds; support for the development of children’s speech, language and communication; parenting support; and an enhanced health visitor service.

Welsh Labour AM Eluned Morgan said the award was part of the government's anti poverty measures, and would create opportunities for POwys children.

"This latest investment shows that the Welsh Labour Government is serious about tackling poverty across Wales and investing in targeted services right where they are needed," she said.

"Flying Start is about giving children a better start, and a fairer chance in life than they would have had otherwise. Across Wales and Powys, it is creating opportunities for children and their families, which in these challenging times is more important than ever.”

Joyce Watson, Mid and West Wales Labour AM added: "In border counties like Powys, we can really start to see the difference in how we do things differently in Wales. At a time when family centres are closing across England, in Wales we are continuing to invest in and support young families.

"Rural communities are not immune to the squeeze on household incomes nor the benefit changes that are making life difficult for far too many people. That is why such significant investment must be welcomed and I hope to be able to visit these projects to see the important work they are doing."