Hundreds of Redbridge parents are now eligible for free childcare for toddlers under a new government scheme.
Around 1,700 two-year-olds in the borough qualify for 15 hours of care a week at a nursery or childminder.
The programme aims to help 130,000 children across the country fom the poorest homes by giving councils funding to pay for their places.
Redbridge MEP Sarah Ludford said: “This is a welcome announcement for families in Redbridge.
“Early education helps promote a child’s physical, emotional and social development.”
Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said the free childcare would focus on “helping the families that need them most”.
Next year the scheme is planned to expand to help thousands more children from families receiving working tax benefits.
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