Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Local families invited to drop-in sessions for funded childcare support

Thursday, 7 May 2026

Families across Central Bedfordshire are being invited to attend a series of drop-in sessions offering support to help them access funded childcare and early education.

We'll be visiting local libraries to help families understand their eligibility for funded places for 2-year-olds, apply for childcare funding, and find suitable childcare.

The sessions are free to attend, with no appointment needed, and aim to make it easier for families to access the support available to them.

Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children’s Services, said:

We know that navigating childcare options and understanding what support you’re entitled to can sometimes feel overwhelming. These drop-in sessions are a great opportunity for families to get clear, friendly advice and help them access funded childcare that works for them and their children.

Families can attend any of the following sessions:

  • Tuesday 12 May, from 9:30am to 11am at Dunstable Library
  • Tuesday 19 May, from 10:30am to midday at Stotfold Library
  • Wednesday 3 June, from 9:30am to 11am at Biggleswade Library
  • Thursday 11 June, from 2pm to 3:15pm at Sandy Library
  • Friday 3 July, from 9:30am to midday at Leighton Buzzard Library

Parents/carers will need to bring their National Insurance (NI) number with them, to help support applications.