Have your say in major childcare survey

5.42.31pm GMT Fri 7th Dec 2007

A plea to local people to have their say during a major online consultation on childcare provision in the borough has been issued by Richmond Council.

From next April local authorities must ensure there are sufficient childcare options for parents and carers in their areas who want to take up work, training or education. The Council has, therefore, launched a special exercise to measure childcare on a ward-by-ward basis, identifying gaps in provision with the aim of boosting childcare in those areas. The survey is seeking comments from anyone who uses, delivers or has an interest in childcare, including parents, carers, children and young people, childcare providers and partner organisations.

Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Education on Richmond Council, said: "We aim to ensure that all parents and carers in our borough can access safe, easily reached and affordable childcare, whether they want to go back to work, training or education. We work closely with our partners to improve provision locally and actively advertise the services of registered childminders. This consultation is vital to ensure we plan accurately for the future and target those areas where more childcare is needed. If you have an interest in childcare please help us formulate an up-to-date picture of services in the borough, so we can improve provision still further."