To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the proposed development of a business support scheme for childcare providers.

My Department is progressing the development of a specialised business support service for childcare providers. The need for such a service was identified in the Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research report.

Officials are currently developing the specification of the proposed service and engaging with stakeholders both across and beyond Government to seek their input and determine the most appropriate delivery model.

The childcare sector is complex and highly regulated. It is made up of a wide range of business models, from individual childminders to voluntary and community organisations and private providers. In addition, it is vital to allow parents, and particularly mothers to work.

It is therefore essential that the Childcare Business Support Service reflects the sector’s diversity and is designed to meet those needs as effectively as possible.