Just weeks before the new cabinet came into post, Ofsted published new figures revealing a continued decline in the number of registered early years providers, largely driven by an ongoing fall in childminding numbers. On the very same day, the Department for Education published a parent survey showing that families on lower incomes continue to struggle to access provision, with just 49% of those with an annual income of under £20,000 accessing “formal childcare” compared to 80% of those with an annual income of £65,000 or more.

Those in government might argue that many of these challenges will be addressed by changes to early years funding, which were the subject of a new consultation which ran over the summer. But of course, that consultation only looked at how funding is distributed and allocated, not whether or not the overall amount of funding the sector receives is enough – which, when considering the devastating impact that years of underfunding has had on the sector, is frankly astounding.

But amid this frustration, we remain hopeful that sector support and funding will change. After all, the ongoing review by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) presents a clear and much-needed opportunity to highlight the impact of sustained underfunding on providers and families alike.

And at the Alliance, we will continue to work closely with the CMA to ensure that the review's findings lead to tangible change and an early years sector where all settings receive the support they so desperately need.

Neil Leitch, CEO, Early Years Alliance

Meeting with the early education minister

Alliance CEO Neil Leitch was pleased to attend an introductory meeting with Paul Waugh, the new early education minister, in August. During the meeting, they spoke about the importance of the early years and the fundamental challenges facing the sector including funding and staffing.

Low Pay Commission oral evidence session

In July, Neil gave evidence to the Low Pay Commission. During the session, which focused on the impact of low pay in the sector, Neil explained that while early educators play a crucial role, not just in supporting children but also their families and the wider community, they remain one of the lowest paid professions.

He also stressed that years of underfunding and the absence of a government-led staffing strategy have made it impossible for many settings to pay their staff a fair and competitive wage.

Calling for heatwave support for early years settings

In the midst of a summer which saw temperatures soar, the Alliance called on the government to improve heatwave support and guidance for early years providers. In July, Neil was interviewed by BBC Sussex about the importance of ensuring settings are supported to safely operate during high temperatures.

Championing and supporting baby and toddler groups 

Following Alliance research on baby and toddler groups in England published in July, which revealed that one in five groups are facing closure, Neil was interviewed by ITV News about the challenges facing this vital part of the sector. During the interview, he spoke of the importance of groups and the significant financial challenges which are prompting many to close their doors.