Free entitlement commitment welcomed
Commitment to free entitlement to childcare is
welcome
NCMA today welcomed the Government’s
commitment to retaining the extension to the free entitlement to
childcare.
Andrew Fletcher, NCMA's Joint Chief
Executive said: "It is encouraging that the Government has
signalled a commitment to retaining the planned increase in the
free entitlement to childcare to 15 hours a week from September
2010.
"Ministers have already said that they want
this childcare to be provided by a diverse range of childcare
providers and we see this as a positive step for registered
childminders.
"We would also urge Ministers to continue
their support for a childminding network in every local community;
a key commitment of the previous Government. This is the only way
to secure a 'diverse' childcare market, where parents have genuine
choice. Currently only registered childminders who are accredited
through a childminding network are able to deliver the free
offer.
"We are also supportive of the Government’s
commitment to continue a pilot of the free entitlement for 20,000
2 year olds from the most disadvantaged
communities, to narrow the gap in outcomes for these children.
"Registered childminders are ideally placed to
care for very young children - as they provide a home environment
and smaller groups of children."
Last updated on:
6/29/2010