Written question WQ99071

We provide flexible funding to local authorities through the Children and Communities Grant to help address sufficiency gaps in childcare and play provision identified locally, including during holiday times. When assessing these sufficiency gaps local authorities must consider the needs of different families which includes children with additional learning needs. We also provide £1m funding annually to the Playworks Holiday Project to increase inclusive and accessible play opportunities during weekends and school holidays.

The current Childcare Offer for Wales includes flexible holiday provision for nine school holiday weeks each year. Local authorities can draw on £2.5m Additional Support Grant funding per year to ensure that eligible children with additional support needs are able to access the Offer in the same way as other eligible children.

We support the childcare and playwork sector through annual funding to Play Wales and the Cwlwm consortium, which includes Clybiau Plant Cymru Kids’ Clubs. Both organisations support holiday clubs, out-of-school activities and community groups promoting equitable access to play for all children.