Childcare sufficiency assessment
We have a statutory duty under the Childcare Act 2006 to secure sufficient childcare services to meet the needs of children and families.
We also have a legal responsibility each year to assess local opinion on the availability of local childcare to check whether it is sufficient to meet the needs of working parents and those making the transition to work.
To find out how many childcare places are required each year we consult with:
- parents
- childcare providers
- local employers
- schools and colleges
We use this information to help us shape the future of childcare.
You can find annual childcare sufficiency assessment (CSA) reports in the downloads section of this page.
The reports have information on the quality, affordability, availability and accessibility of childcare in the area.
South West regional sufficiency strategy
We have worked with the Institute of Public Care and 14 regional councils to produce a strategy aimed at addressing childcare sufficiency across the South West.