Review of Childcare Services

Dear parents and carers

The Department of Education has commissioned a Review of Childcare Services and a survey has been launched to gather the views of parents and carers of children aged between 0 and 14 years. This Review will inform the development of an NI Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and we have been asked to share details of the survey with my parents and carers, to ensure as many as possible have the opportunity to contribute.     

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION – REVIEW OF CHILDCARE SERVICES - SURVEY   

Have you got a few minutes to help improve childcare services in Northern Ireland?  A review of childcare services in Northern Ireland, commissioned by the Department of Education, wants to hear from parents, carers and others in the sector. The review wants to understand the current state of the childcare sector in Northern Ireland, including the supply and demand of childcare services, their accessibility and affordability.  The review will involve surveys and focus groups or interviews with parents, carers, childcare providers and other people within the childcare sector.  Parents and carers of children aged between 0 and 14 years of age in Northern Ireland can have their say in this survey (your answers are anonymous): tinyurl.com/mrc7dskp  

The survey will close on 30th September 2022. The independent review is being carried out by RSM, with support from: National Children’s Bureau; Dr Glenda Walsh of Stranmillis University College; and LucidTalk. 

The final report is expected in December 2022 and will inform the development of the NI Executive’s Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.