Grants of £750 are being paid to all registered childminders in Scotland in order to secure the sustainability of their businesses.
While up to £1 million had been planned for need-assessed grants, additional resource of £3,228,750 million has been invested to ensure payments can be made to all childminders registered with the Care Inspectorate. This will simplify and speed up the process, ensuring the money reaches those that need it as quickly as possible.
Children’s Minister Maree Todd MSP said:
“Childminders are a vital and valued part of our childcare sector, providing high quality care and learning in a safe and nurturing environment.
“Just as many other childcare providers have experienced financial pressures as a result of the pandemic and the restrictions that have been placed on them, childminders too have raised genuine concern about the future sustainability of their businesses.
“I’m pleased that we have been able to increase the funding available to support the profession, and by simplifying the process we will be able to get the funds to those who need them more quickly.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP welcomed the funding, saying:
“This helpful additional funding will allow a simpler fund to be established, offering a single rate of grant set at £750 for every childminder in Scotland registered with the Care Inspectorate.
“The application process to receive this grant will be simple and will not require evidence of need to be presented.
“Further information on how to apply will be made available as soon as possible. I encourage childcare providers in North Ayrshire to check eligibility and apply when they can.”
ENDS
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