Other

Social Care News: Northern Ireland - Warning over lack of childcare funds

The Government must commit to long-term funding of out-of-school childcare in Northern Ireland to prevent clubs closing their doors, hitting thousands of children and families, a play organisation has warned.

PlayBoard said at least 40 voluntary out-of-school clubs, a sixth of the country's total, were being forced to close because their funding was ending, and warned that more could follow.

PlayBoard contrasted the situation in Northern Ireland, where out-of-school places have been funded through short-term streams from the Lottery and the European Union, with that in the rest of the UK, where the Government is providing millions of pounds to support out-of-school childcare in extended schools.

Regional manager Jacqueline O'Loughlin said out-of-school care was not a priority for any of the three Northern Ireland Executive departments - education, employment and learning, and health and social services - with responsibility for childcare.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here


More like this

CEO

Bath, Somerset

Hertfordshire Youth Workers

“Opportunities in districts teams and countywide”