$166,000 for children with special needs

More than $160,000 will be spent ensuring child care providers throughout New South Wales are equipped to care for children with disabilities, Federal Minister for Community Services, Larry Anthony, announced today.

“This grant, through the national Supplementary Services Program (SUPS), will fund a training and support program to make child care services more accessible to children with additional needs and disabilities,” Mr Anthony said.

“The Lady Gowrie Child Centre in Sydney will manage the program, which will provide support and advice to child care workers through courses and the use of a special needs equipment pool.

“The equipment pool gives child care service providers easier access to equipment needed by children with a disability.”

Minister Anthony said families of children with a disability often faced barriers making it difficult to access child care services.

“This funding will ensure the equipment and support needed to provide care for children with disabilities and special needs is available,” Mr Anthony said.

“All families need confidence in the quality of child care and access to a safe and accepting child care environment.

“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring equal access to quality child care for all Australian families.”

Families who need information about community based child care services in their area can phone the Commonwealth Government’s Child Care Access Hotline on 1800 670 305.