We are aware that disabled children need access to childcare (Letters, June 25).

All our playschemes this summer offer places to children with special needs. Each scheme can take two children per day who need additional support.

But these schemes are run in schools and, at the moment, we are not able to offer full access for children who are wheelchair users.

As for developing more provision, we are supporting two new after-school clubs to open in September to provide inclusive care for children with disabilities.

We are launching a new grant to help children with special needs access childcare services in Brighton and Hove. This can be used to purchase, install or transport specialist equipment or to provide extra staff.

We are also working with aMAZE, the local parent support group, and leisure bodies to provide the

Compass card, which offers free swimming to families with disabled children.

Many groups already receive Brighton and Hove City Council grants to develop leisure opportunities for disabled children. Many more are in talks with us to see what can be done to extend services.

For further information about children's services we offer, call 01273 293545.

-David Hawker, Director - Children, Families and Schools, Brighton and Hove City Council