Every family must be able to access childcare
Responding to the First Minister’s statement this afternoon, Scottish Greens Parliamentary Co-Leader Alison Johnstone MSP called on the First Minister to ensure that every family has access to the childcare it needs.
Alison Johnstone MSP said:
“The announcement confirming the delayed rollout of 1140 hours of childcare came as a huge disappointment for parents.
“For those using or seeking alternative childcare provision like childminders, restrictions on blended childcare are very challenging.
“The Scottish Childminding Association says that more than 80% of childminders believe their businesses will be unviable if restrictions on blended childcare continue after schools return.
“Without adequate and affordable childcare many parents, particularly women and single parents, will continue to be excluded from the workforce. The First Minister must ensure that as Scotland returns to work, she provides every family with as much certainty as is possible that access to childcare will be available.
“Clarity on whether our youngest children can be looked after both by childminders and then in nursery is essential to enable childminders and parents to plan. Will children be able to attend after school clubs at the end of the day? Schools reopen in a matter of weeks and this information is urgently needed.“