Government Locks In Early Years Funding Amid Coronavirus Chaos
The Government has slammed the brakes on funding fears by confirming it will keep paying local authorities for free childcare entitlements for two, three, and four-year-olds – even if nurseries or preschools shut due to coronavirus.
Cash Continues Despite Closures
Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed today (Tuesday 17 March) that funding for early years settings will carry on regardless of any nursery or childminder closures prompted by Public Health England’s advice during the COVID-19 crisis. This guarantees vital financial support for providers when children can’t attend.
The Department for Education urged local authorities to keep funneling this government cash straight to childcare providers. The move aims to minimise disruption and give nurseries breathing space during turbulent times.
No Fee Hikes for Childcare Providers
To add stability, the Government also announced there will be no increase in the fees paid by providers to register with Ofsted for 2020-21. This decision follows feedback from the sector during a recent consultation.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson stressed the importance of this support: “Millions of parents rely on childcare and the vital service provided by nurseries, childminders and preschools.”
He added: “Making sure that young children can be cared for safely so their parents can work is now more important than ever. We will keep paying for all free early years places—even if settings close or children cannot attend—and we won’t demand funding back from local authorities.”
Ofsted Inspections Suspended to Ease Pressure
Public Health England still advises all educational settings to remain open unless told otherwise. Meanwhile, the Department for Education is issuing daily updates to local authorities and early years groups.
Children and Families Minister Vicky Ford praised early years staff:
“I want to thank all the practitioners who day-in and day-out do such an excellent job. These are tough times, but these announcements show we’re listening and taking urgent action.”
She also thanked sector bodies like the Early Years Alliance and National Day Nurseries Association for their ongoing engagement.
In a move to reduce the strain on essential workers, the Department confirmed Ofsted will temporarily suspend routine inspections of schools, colleges, early years settings, and social care providers during the coronavirus response.
