About the Commission
In 2023, the Commission into Affordable Childcare launched in Hackney.
The independent Commission, chaired by June O’Sullivan MBE, included parents and carers, childcare providers, council representatives and members of the local community.
The Commission looked into:
- challenges, risks and costs of local childcare
- maximising support available for families
- building lasting partnerships with local organisations (public, private or not for profit)
- inclusive and sustainable childcare options
The Commission held many engagement sessions to help them understand the main issues affecting childcare providers and users.
Commission recommendations
The Commission has made 29 recommendations in four areas:
Manage the Hackney childcare market
These recommendations propose actions to develop a market management strategy and plan to meet the childcare needs of Hackney families. There is a focus on positive educational and wellbeing outcomes.
Support early years education and care services
These recommendations respond to the precarious situation and rising costs that affect early years providers. They propose ways to address these risks.
Build a pipeline of early years staff in Hackney
These recommendations look at cross organisation solutions to address the early years workforce crisis.
Connect, collaborate and champion
These recommendations look at ways to champion the importance of early years education and care in supporting children’s development, school readiness and better life chances.
Next steps
The Council is now reviewing the recommendations and will provide a formal response.