Written Statement: Consultation on the Review of the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment Duty on Local Authorities

I am pleased today to launch the Consultation on the Review of the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment Duty on Local Authorities. This provides an opportunity for stakeholders from across all those policy areas which either impact on, or have a contribution to make to the planning and management of the sufficiency of childcare provision in Wales. We would also welcome views from the general public, including parents and carers who use or would like to use childcare.

Under the Childcare Act 2006 (Local Authority Assessment) (Wales) Regulations 2016 (the regulations), Local Authorities have a duty to provide sufficient childcare, as far as reasonably practicable.  The Childcare Sufficiency Assessment (CSA) process is key for Local Authorities in understanding the needs of their communities.

This consultation document sets out a proposal for the future development of CSAs in Wales and seeks views on how the CSA process and content may be improved and made fit for purpose to meet the needs of all stakeholders. 

Some of the proposed changes being considered in the consultation are:

• We are being less prescriptive in our requirements, which combined with clearer guidance aims to equip Local Authorities to be more responsive to their communities and prepare more relevant and impactful CSAs.

   

• Taking a fresh look at data requirements to ensure it is more meaningful and using existing data to develop proxy measures as a means of providing a more robust assessment.

• Considering information from a broad range of sources, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative information, building on existing data systems, surveys and local knowledge and intelligence to provide a more meaningful assessment.

   

• Provision of clearer Statutory Guidance to ensure consistency and clarity around definitions and CSA content.

The proposed changes aim to result in a more relevant, simplified and streamlined assessment and will mean amending the current regulations.

Our Anti Racist Action Plan reflects our commitment to building an inclusive society for all people and communities in Wales. A specific action within this plan is for Local Authorities to engage, as appropriate, with Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities to identify how the voice and lived experiences of people in these communities can be better captured as part of the CSA process.  I am pleased that we have engaged with people from these communities through our Community Mentor programme through this review.

Local Authorities are currently required to provide sufficient childcare, as far as reasonably practical, for children with additional learning needs.  This remains a strong element of the CSAs going forward.

We have worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders to understand how the CSA process can be improved, as well as considering the impact of any changes on various groups.  Their input has supported and guided this consultation, and I am grateful to all who have contributed to the process.

Your views will play a crucial role in ensuring that adequate childcare services are available to meet the needs of our communities. All responses will be analysed and a summary published in the Winter 2025. 

This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.