Late on Friday afternoon (23 April 2021) we received an update from the Scottish Government which included a statement that childcare providers should not charge parents/carers fees if children and/or families are required to self-isolate. It was suggested our members may find this information helpful.
We have a number of serious concerns about this and have already, today (26 April 2021) written to the Scottish Government to express these concerns, to seek much-needed clarity.
We are asking that the Scottish Government either reconsiders its position and enables childminders to charge retainer fees (voluntary and of a low-level) as part of their established business practice or will directly compensate childminders for any loss of income arising from this decision.
As suggested, we are sharing the update received along with our letter to the Scottish Government:
Scottish Government Update on Fees (23 April 2021)
SCMA Letter to Scottish Government (26 April 2021)
We understand that this action has been in response to concerns received from parents and includes advice from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
If - as a childminder - you are concerned about the potential impact of this decision on your business and would also like to share your concerns directly with the Scottish Government, please email
ELCPartnershipForum@gov.scot directly.
We will update members with any further information as it becomes available and once we have received a response from the Scottish Government.