News

Coronavirus: Councils ignoring DfE guidance on funding nurseries and childminders at pre-Covid levels

One in six local authorities in England are failing to follow Government guidance on early years funding intended to protect providers from the financial impact of coronavirus, an investigation by the Early Years Alliance has revealed.
Thousands of early years providers across the country have lower numbers of children attending than they would usually this term, as a result of the pandemic
Thousands of early years providers across the country have lower numbers of children attending than they would usually this term, as a result of the pandemic

The Government confirmed in July that local authorities would receive early years funding for the autumn term on the basis of how many children were attending settings in their areas before the coronavirus pandemic hit.

The move is designed to ensure that providers are safeguarded from the current low demand for childcare places due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite reopening more widely, early years providers are operating with around half of their usual intake. The latest official figures from the DfE on attendance show that an estimated 674,000 children attended early years settings on 24 September. This represents approximately 52 per cent of children who usually attend childcare in term time.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Room Leader

Hammersmith and Fulham, London (Greater)

Senior Practitioner

South West London