A move to offer a financial boost to childcare providers following Government changes to the provision of supported free places at nurseries is set to be examined.
Richmondshire District Council’s scrutiny committee will hear the changes had introduced “challenges to providers to continue delivering services” whilst offering the Government funding initiative of 30 hours’ free child care.
The Government is encouraging councils to consider using their powers to provide relief to childcare providers where there is a clear community benefit such as where it would help with narrowing the gap, school readiness or maternal employment.
Members will hear the Government will fund 50 per cent of the cost of any local discount granted.
Councillors are being asked to consider offering relief to childcare providers for ten or more children under the age of eight, which operate for a minimum period of 8am to 5pm from Monday to Friday and are an approved provider.
The cost of any discretionary rate relief awarded falls would fall 50 per cent to the Government, 40 per cent to the district council and ten per cent to the county council.
