Nursery places information in doubt, claims Early Years Alliance

The Early Years Alliance (EYA), through a Freedom of Information request, has cast doubt on the figures from the Government claiming that there are enough childcare places to meet demand. The EYA requested data from all upper-tier local authorities in England to establish if they are fulfilling their duty to ensure sufficient childcare under Section 6 of the Childcare Act. From the 117 councils that responded, 96% stated they had sufficient places.

However, delving into the data EYA have found that:

• Only 15 per cent collect information on what proportion of parents and carers in the area are able to access the quantity of early years provision that they would like (e.g – if they need three full days a week, whether or not they are able to access three full days or can only access, for example, two.)
• 14 per cent currently collect data on what proportion of parents and carers in the area are able to access early years provision on the specific times and dates that they want.
• 9 per cent currently collect data on what proportion of parents and carers in the area are able to secure a place at their first-choice setting.
• Less than one in 10 local authorities collect information about provision meeting the needs of parents with children with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

The EYA said the findings highlight the need for not only an affordable childcare system, but one that is accessible, sustainable and high-quality. Following the chancellors budget announcement on free childcare places, the worry for the sector is that provision is not currently available and this will exacerbate the situation.