Issue - meetings

Following scrutiny, members supported the recommendation outlined in the draft Cabinet report

The Head of Early Years, Inclusion and Partnerships provided an overview of the report contained within the agenda pack.

The Cabinet Member for Education and Early Years congratulated staff on the work undertaken in the previous Flying Start phases.

Members questioned whether funding was available to implement phase 3 in a quicker timescale than the 6 years stated in the report. There were concerns over children who were in immediate need of support.

Officers advised members that it was important to ensure that the appropriate childcare infrastructure was in place prior to moving forward. The Childcare Sufficiency assessment was important in identifying need.

Members acknowledged the difficulties currently experienced in the child care sector in terms of training and rising costs.

Officers advised members that work is ongoing to raise the bar of the childcare workforce at all levels and to ensure that the childcare workforce are recognised as professionals with appropriate pay to match their qualifications. The issues currently experienced are raised with Welsh Government and it is hoped that there will be ongoing support for the sector.

The Cabinet Member for Education and Early Years, mentioned the recent Childcare Awards presentation and commented that 47 of the 49 of the mostly private companies attending, offered Flying Start. The additional work and training undertaken to offer Flying Start is not recognised. Any additional funding provided to this area would be welcomed.

Following scrutiny, members supported the recommendation outlined in the draft Cabinet report