Consultation on childcare continues

Having completed the first countywide consultation on childcare provision, Shropshire County Council is now asking for the public's view. The report is based on the findings of the assessment which was conducted over the past six months, with over 360 people and organisations taking part.

Rachel Curran, Senior Early Years & Childcare Officer, said: “This is your chance to see what has been said and to comment on whether or not you agree with the findings. In addition, we are asking people to tell us what they think are the key areas for action. Once we have analysed all the responses, we will be publishing the final report at the end of March.

“The initial findings identify some gaps where childcare provision does not meet parental demand. These have been used to develop a list of areas for action, and it is this list that we are asking people to put in order of priority according to what they think is most important,” she added.

The list of proposed actions includes:
- Increase the provision of childcare for 0-2 year olds countywide.
- Improve access to childcare in rural areas.
- Increase out-of-school and holiday provision for 9-19 year olds, focusing on the areas of greatest need first such as south Shropshire.
- Develop services for children with additional needs.
- Improve access to information on childcare.
- Extend the provision of out-of-hours childcare such as overnight and weekend care.
- Increase the number of childminders in the area south of Shrewsbury between Bridgnorth and Church Stretton.
- Put in place systems to make childcare more affordable.
- Improve the quality of childcare across Shropshire.
- Put in place systems to ensure the long term sustainability of childcare.

Copies of the draft report and the executive summary are available in libraries, via the link on this page, or you can request a copy from the Early Years Education & Childcare Team by ringing (01743) 254453.

27 February 2008