Over the summer, Audit Scotland ran a survey to try to capture the views of parents and carers about their experiences of early learning and childcare in Scotland. This was a key part of preparations for a new audit of these services, to give an independent assessment of how the system is working and what outcomes are being delivered for people who access this support.
It was the first time that Audit Scotland had directly reached out families who use these services, so they weren’t sure what kind of response to expect. They are really pleased with the result, as dozens of individuals and organisations helped to spread the word about the survey and over 300 people completed the questionnaire.
They have learned a lot from the engagement, and collected some really useful material, including individual stories. Early analysis of the responses shows a range of recurring views, including the positive impact that early learning and childcare can have on a child’s development and wellbeing.
However, concerns were raised on issues such as:
- the cost of services,
- a lack of choice, and
- limited flexibility, particularly for working or studying parents.
It’s important to highlight that reform of early learning and childcare is continuing: in a September announcement on the 2016/17 Programme for Government, the First Minister set out a commitment to double the amount of free care available to all three and four-year-olds, and two-year-olds who will benefit most, by the end of the Scottish Parliament’s fifth session.
This means that the audit will be a timely and relevant contribution to the future development of early learning and childcare services.
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