2021
Children and Young People’s Strategy published
In January 2021, the children and young people’s strategy was published. The strategy is the strategic framework through which departments to work together to improve the well-being of all children and young people. It lists eight outcomes to be achieved for all children and young people. These cover many aspects of children’s lives including their physical and mental health, play and leisure, learning and achieving, safety and stability, economic and environmental well-being, contribution to society and rights and equality.
2020
Additional funding package announced for the childcare sector
In July 2020, the Education Minister outlined the plans following the allocation of a £10.5 million (€11.8 million*) funding package for the childcare sector. The Childcare Recovery Support package will help childcare providers to reopen, or remain open, and will apply to day care and school age childcare settings, play groups and childminders. The package of measures developed for the period 1 July to 31 August will:
- provide financial support to childcare providers to assist them to operate within the parameters of the Executive’s childcare recovery plan
- ensure as many providers as possible can open to assist parents returning to work
- allow for the continuation of the bespoke Approved Home Childcarer Scheme aimed at enabling parents to have their childcare needs met in their own homes
*Exchange rate used: €1 = £0.89, ECB, 02 September 2020.
2019
There were no reforms in this area.
2018
There were no reforms in this area.
Article last reviewed March 2021.