A NURSERY group has launched an initiative to support families impacted by redundancy as a result of the pandemic.

Co-op Childcare, which operates the Little Pioneers nurseries in Southampton, says its 'Helping Hands' redundancy support programme is designed to take pressure off parents who may be facing uncertainty about their employment.

From November until the end of the year, the group is offering qualifying families two free childcare sessions and 50% off any additional session every week for up to six weeks.

The support is available to families where one, or both, parents or carers have been made redundant between April 1 and December 31.

Sally Bonnar, chief operating officer of the Childcare Group at The Midcounties Co-operative, said: “As one of the UK’s leading co-operatives, we are focused on supporting our members and communities and doing the right thing by them.

“We know this is an extremely challenging time for many and hope our Helping Hands initiative will help parents and carers by giving them a bit of breathing space as they look for new opportunities, as well as offer guidance and advice around their childcare.

“Ultimately, we’re here to provide a safe and happy environment for children and we will keep working to support our communities however we can.”

The nursery group is also providing families with free half-hour virtual consultations with its childcare finance specialist, who can help them understand what other support is available.

Anyone who makes a permanent booking for their child will have their registration fee waived, and will be offered flexible payment terms as well as the first week’s childcare for free.