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Jersey Early Years Association warns of staff shortages for expanded childcare hours
Overview
Jersey's government has proposed increasing free nursery hours for two and three-year-olds from 15 to 20 hours as part of its 2027-2030 budget measures to help with the cost of living. However, the Jersey Early Years Association (JEYA) cautions that providers lack the capacity and appropriately qualified staff to meet the increased demand, meaning financial support alone may not translate into better access.
Key points
- Jersey's government proposed increasing free nursery hours for two and three-year-olds from 15 to 20 hours in its 2027 to 2030 budget.
- The Jersey Early Years Association (JEYA) states that the island lacks enough appropriately qualified staff and places to meet increased childcare demand.
- JEYA claims there was no prior consultation regarding the additional £1.7m in funding for current operations.
- The Children, Young People, Education and Skills department acknowledged the need to balance funding with sector capacity, noting mixed evidence across the market.
- Parents, backbench politicians, and business representatives have offered mixed reactions, welcoming the financial relief while highlighting ongoing staffing and cost-of-living challenges.