It was good to catch-up with early years providers from St Helens Borough to thank them for their vital work during this pandemic and discuss the sector’s top priorities and challenges.

As both the local MP and the parent of two young children, I know the value of services offered by early years providers in St Helens – such as our nurseries – can’t be understated. But for too long the Government has failed to prioritise them, letting down young children’s education, growth and development.

With the virus and financial pressures posing a threat to nurseries locally and nationally, Ministers must swiftly act to support them properly.