Lewisham Council has pledged its full support for the Labour government's commitment to delivering 30 hours of free childcare per week for working parents. The decision was made at a council meeting on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, as detailed in the motion Motion.

Councillor Luke Warner, seconded by Councillor Sophie Davis, proposed the motion, highlighting the significant benefits of high-quality early years provision. The motion recognises the positive impact that expanded childcare will have on families in Lewisham, particularly in easing the cost-of-living crisis and reducing barriers to work.

The council has resolved to proactively engage with local nurseries, childminders, and early years providers to ensure families can access the benefits of the scheme as quickly as possible. This includes identifying any potential obstacles to provision and offering additional support where needed.

The motion also celebrates the work of Lewisham's Sure Start centres, children's centres and family hubs, which have provided vital support for parents and early years development.

The council resolved to:

  • Welcome and fully support the Labour Government's legislation.
  • Celebrate Lewisham's early years services.
  • Work with local providers to ensure local families benefit as soon as possible.
  • Write to the Secretary of State for Education urging sufficient funding to cover the true cost of provision and protect the sustainability of local childcare providers. This commitment aims to ensure that all childcare providers, including smaller and independent entities, can participate in the program without jeopardizing their financial stability.

The council noted that Lewisham has a strong track record of supporting families and children through its network of children's centres, family hubs, and Sure Start provision, which have provided vital support for parents and early years development even during years of government cuts.

The motion states that affordable childcare is critical national infrastructure, as essential to family life and economic growth as transport and housing. It also states that Labour's policy will transform the lives of families in Lewisham by tackling child poverty, reducing inequality, and giving every child the best possible start in life.