PARENTS in West Somerset could receive financial help as part of a major childcare package outlined by the Government.

Working families will be given up to £2,000 to ease the cost of childcare as part of a scheme to be rolled out in autumn 2015.

The Government has said it will provide 20% support on childcare costs up, to £10,000 per year for each child.

Mum Justine Baker, LibDem’s prospective MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset, welcomed the move, which could affect more than 700 parents across the area.

She said: “This news provides a huge boost to hardworking families in West Somerset. We’re committed to building a stronger economy and a fairer society and this will help children get off to the best start in life.”

The Government has also said people on Universal Credit will get 85% of childcare costs fully covered.

Cllr Baker said: “These measures will help parents to go to work and provide security for their families.

“As a mum myself of a five and nine year old, I know only too well the cost of childcare and the strain that puts on young families.”