Coram research shows lack of confidence in the future phases of the entitlement expansion
by Jess Gibson
Coram Family and Childcare has today published research highlighting a lack of confidence in the sector on the future phases of the entitlement expansion.
The national charity’s research finds that 6 in 10 local authorities are either not confident or unsure if there will be sufficient places for September's phase of the expansion, with just 11% confident there will be sufficient places for the final phase in September 2025.
The research also shows that 75% report that their biggest concern in delivery of the remainder of the early education and childcare expansion is the local workforce.
The research coincides with the release of Coram’s manifesto, which contains a number of recommendations that the charity feels would aid the sector, including the introduction and funding of a workforce strategy, responsive SEND funding, and the simplification of the funding system.
Commenting, Neil Leitch, CEO of the Early Years Alliance, said: “Today’s research from Coram paints an extremely concerning picture of the remaining phases of the early entitlement expansion.
“Not only are a significant proportion of local authorities far from confident that they will be able to meet increased demand, but the fact that 75% highlight staffing challenges as their biggest concern should set alarm bells ringing. Let’s be clear, if meaningful action isn’t taken soon to address the significant staffing and capacity challenges facing the sector, families understandably hoping to take advantage of expansion will likely be left disappointed.
“With the election now just a week away, whoever forms the next government must commit to ensuring that England's early years sector is able to sustainably meet demand, not just for the future phases of the expansion but long into the future."