SDLP councillor Adam Gannon has urged parents not to miss out on the Northern Ireland Childcare Support Scheme (NICSS).

Figures obtained by the SDLP from the Education Minister show the number of children registered and approved for a 15 per cent reduction in childcare costs by September 9 by constituency.

Lagan Valley topped the list with 1,112 (10 per cent of those eligible) children registered, while West Belfast was at the bottom with 206 children (two per cent).

In Fermanagh and South Tyrone 632 (five per cent) children had been registered and approved.

Councillor Gannon said: “After years of hard work from campaign groups, frustrated parents and other stakeholders, the SDLP was key in securing this much-needed support for parents struggling with childcare costs.

"At all levels of government, we have highlighted the unfair system that leaves parents facing eye-watering costs and for many, a significant negative impact on their careers.

“The NICSS is an important first step in delivering affordable childcare for parents and it’s important that they are made aware of the support they are entitled to and register to receive it.

"While the scheme has only been live for a short time, it is concerning that in many areas we are seeing very small numbers of children registered and approved so that parents can avail of this funding. 

“As part of this scheme, the Department of Education have a duty to undertake awareness campaigns and provide information to eligible parents. Childcare providers should also work with parents to make this process as easy as possible for both sides.

"The SDLP will continue pushing for expanded childcare support that meets the needs of parents across the North, but in the meantime, the least the department can do is ensure that everyone receives the funding they are entitled to.”