Liberal Democrats announce £903,651 to give children in Rugby a brighter future

1,046 3-4 year-olds in Warwickshire would benefit from Liberal Democrats plans to triple funding for the early years pupil premium, with gives extra cash to nurseries, preschools and school receptions when they take on children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The cash would triple the funding to £1,000 per pupil per year - up from £302 in 2015-16. This will increase the allocation for local authorities in the Warwickshire County Council area from around £301,217 to £903,651 and will pay for every disadvantaged child who benefits to receive 570 hours of state-funded early education.

It forms part of a series of policies the Liberal Democrats have announced to give children and young people a brighter future.

These include:

• Helping people buy their first home for the same cost as renting, with a new model of 'Rent to Own' homes

• Restoring housing benefit for young people

• Creating a discounted bus pass for 16-21 year olds, giving a 66% discount

• Introducing votes at 16 for elections and referendums across the UK

As well as:

• Investing almost £7bn in our schools and colleges

• Doubling the number of businesses that take apprenticeships
• Tripling the early years pupil premium
• Extending free school meals to all primary school students

Lib Dems Parliamentary Candidate for Rugby & Bulkington, Jerry Roodhouse, said:

"The Liberal Democrats are the only party who will give children in Rugby a brighter future and ensure no child or young person is left behind. We want to invest in those from more deprived backgrounds to give them the best possible chance in life.

"The Liberal Democrats will provide a strong opposition to this Conservative government and stand up against cuts to local schools, hospitals and regional funding. A vote for the Liberal Democrats is a vote for a brighter future for people across Rugby."