WITH ONE nursery (Village Under 5s) in Portslade closed down and another one (Stepping Stones) due to close at the end of the academic term, when will something be done to save our early years childcare?

Everyone knows about the “Save Our Schools” campaign but it is time we got behind our nurseries in the same way.

The Government doesn’t seem to care about our children and the quality of their pre-school education and care.

It doesn’t give nurseries nearly enough money to make up for the 15 hours or 30 hours of free childcare they have to offer parents.

As such, nurseries and preschools are running on empty and those who don’t run their operations cheaply (ie the quality ones) are inevitably closing down.

Early years education and nurturing is key to developing wellrounded individuals, and it’s time our Prime Minister realised this.

Without good childcare options, we will have more adults with mental health issues, and more turning to drink and drugs.

We already have more children with depression and anxiety than ever before, and in many cases I am sure this can be traced back to early years parenting and care.

The experience of children from birth to the age of five is key to their social and emotional wellbeing.

Maxine Harrison
Benfield Way, Portslade