The Isle of Wight council insists there are enough childcare places on the Island to provide for youngsters — despite what parents say.
In a report, it has been revealed the council thought there would be less requirement for statutory childcare on the Island following the Covid pandemic, due to an increase in working from home.
More out-of-school provisions
A survey of parents found the opposite — needs have increased and they would like more out-of-school provisions.
Careful market management will be needed in the coming years, however, a childcare report said, as the Island’s under-15 population decreases.
13 per cent drop in under-five-year-olds since 2011
In the latest census data there had been a 13 per cent drop in the number of under-five-year-olds since 2011.
The council’s cabinet approved a childcare report and its findings at a meeting last week.
In the report, it said the childcare market has continued to recover from Covid, but there are increasing challenges with financial sustainability due to the cost of living crisis.
Recruitment issues
Providers also said there is an issue recruiting and retaining experienced, qualified staff and gaps were filled by less-experienced practitioners.
A Childcare Sufficiency Assessment action plan has been created and includes developing out-of-school childcare by summer 2023.
Drop in early-year childcare places
In December 2022 there were 2,528 early-year childcare places on the Island — a 111-place drop since 2019.
Since the report has been published, YMCA Winchester House in Shanklin has announced it is closing its nursery provision in April.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
Image: © Isle of Wight Council
