Blog: Ready for 30 hours of childcare? #TalkChildcare

‘Money talks’ as the saying goes, and undoubtedly, where childcare is in question, this is a common concern by parents / carers on the one hand and by childcare providers (in Cylchoedd Meithrin, nurseries, playgroups, registered childminders and out of school childcare clubs alike).

So when Welsh Government announced (with the support of most opposition parties) that it would introduce 30 hours free childcare for 3 and 4 year olds whose parents work 16 hours a week as part of its programme in the run up to 2021, we gave a cheer! This is a really great opportunity for parents to take advantage of funded quality childcare and for providers or settings to receive remuneration and an hourly rate that is recognition of the high costs and work involved in providing a quality childcare service.

As with any such significant change, there is some concern and problems (naturally) as childcare providers hear about what’s afoot.

Here are 10 ‘top tips’ for childcare settings and providers across Wales:

1. Is your location in one of the 7 areas that are part of the pilot? These areas are: Gwynedd, Ynys Môn, Flintshire, Swansea, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly. If you are in one of these areas, why not talk to a representative of the umbrella organisation that you belong to in order to receive more guidance and support?
2. Look out for relevant developments on the web, Twitter and on Facebook. Attend meetings or forums that will be organised locally by your umbrella organisation, by ‘Cwlwm’ or by a Local Authority.
3. Make sure you have a business plan in place, broadly that you know your monthly income and expenditure. Contact your umbrella organisation for support. If you’re not a member, become one!
4. Fundraising is a reality for many childcare providers and a plan of regular fundraising events is required. There are loads of ideas available online and on social media – what are other locations in other areas of Wales doing?
5. Contribute any comments to the Welsh Government through the #TalkChildcare campaign. You may have views about the current 10-hour plan (or ‘Flying Start’ scheme). Help the Government to plan this correctly as the plan evolves.
6. Think about applying for the ‘Awards for All’ Lottery grant to improve the setting’s resources. Other sources are also available (The Health Lottery, Postcode Lottery, Aviva Community Fund, The Coalfields Regeneration Trust etc). Your childcare umbrella organisation and Local Authority will be able to provide you with further support and guidance (Clybiau Plant Cymru Kids Clubs, Pacey, Mudiad Meithrin, NDNA and Wales PPA).
7. Make sure your staff have every opportunity to gain a qualification or skill with local and national opportunities. A place that invests in the skills of its staff is a rewarding place!
8. Get the support of your community (see point 4) to fundraise, promote your work, engage with stakeholders!
9. Do you transition successfully with your local schools? That is, is the relationship between your setting and the school good? There are a number of examples of childcare settings that make different plans including wraparound in conjunction with schools.
10.Keep in touch! Each umbrella organisation updates Facebook and Twitter daily with news about different developments. Follow them, like them on Facebook and use the expertise and knowledge of their staff!

They say that people are averse to change. Whatever your initial feelings about this scheme, do not be left behind and make the most of this opportunity!