A NURSERY in Andover has received a financial boost to help with the cost of rent and continue to provide care.

Moore Hall Playschool in Church Close, has received £4,999 from the childcare sustainability grant provided by Hampshire County Council to help with rental costs and marketing.

The playschool is a long-standing centre that has been operating from this site for around 70 years.

It is a charitable organisation run from the Church Hall and rated ‘good’ by Ofsted.

It offers childcare during term time and provides early years provision for children aged two to preschool.

According to the county council decision report, the playschool is experiencing fewer children and increased staff and running costs.

With the grant, the playschool will be able to continue to provide childcare for 49 children.

The report said: “Child intake numbers are lower than usual, particularly for afternoon sessions. They have higher staffing levels than required due to the number of SEN children.

“This grant will support the financial sustainability of this setting, enabling continuity of early years education for 49 children.”

The grant is part of the county council’s Covid response, and up to £209,000 has been made available to childcare providers who require support with short-term financial sustainability.

Moore Hall Playschool has been contacted for a comment.