The National Day Nurseries Association has published a book aimed at helping nurseries understand the childcare market and the issue of sustainability.

Included in the book, The Changing Childcare Market, is a description of the childcare arena, facts and figures, and an overview of what is happening in the sector.

The guide includes government policy as well as market trends. It also covers how to position nurseries as businesses, drive marketing opportunities and contains advice on working with local authorities.

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of the association, said: "We believe that this is a practical guide that unlocks the jargon around changes including the Childcare Act. There are challenges for both local authorities and childcare providers in meeting the new duties and effective partnership working will be key to achieving this vision.

"We believe this new publication is a vital tool in supporting the partnership working process and will help day nurseries understand how to develop their nursery and meet the needs of a changing childcare market," she added.

- www.ndna.org.uk.