Dawn Bowden MS, Minister for Children and Social Care
Last year, I launched a consultation on proposed changes to the National Minimum Standards (NMS) for Regulated Childcare for children up to the age of 12.
All registered childcare and play providers are expected to have regard to the NMS. These standards help ensure they meet the requirements of the Childminding and Daycare (Wales) Regulations 2010 (as amended) in a way that reflects the type of service they provide.
Today, I am pleased to publish a summary of responses to this consultation along with an updated Impact Assessment which shows the proposals were broadly supported by respondents.
The consultation proposals sought to address recommendations arising from the Early Years, Childcare and Play reviews, as well as concerns raised by stakeholders and providers. Our aim was to ensure that providers can remain sustainable while children and families benefit from safe, nurturing and high‑quality childcare and play experiences that support children to play, learn, socialise and thrive.
These standards will remain under review to ensure providers meet the regulatory expectations set for them, and to safeguard the quality of childcare and play provision that families and children rely on.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this consultation. Your feedback has been invaluable in helping us shape standards that are relevant, proportionate and fit for purpose, both now and for the future.