AQW 41500/22-27

Mrs Michelle Guy
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 26/02/2026
Answered On Date: 16/03/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the intended services of the Childcare Business Advisory Service, referenced in the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.

Answer:

My Department is leading on the development of a Childcare Business Support Service as part of the Executive’s Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy to strengthen the long‑term financial sustainability of the childcare sector. The service will provide targeted, specialist support to childcare providers, including childminders, voluntary and community settings, and private providers, aimed at helping them improve financial planning, resilience and operational sustainability.