A MULTI-million pound scheme to support under-pressure childcare providers has finally been opened.
Politicians had been warned that the sector was under enormous financial pressure and facing "decimation".
Childminders have been stopped from looking after most children due to the strict lockdown restrictions.
Just 438 of 2,800 childminders have anyone in their care, and most have had reduced numbers to the point their work is no longer financially viable.
Daycare providers were promised emergency cash to stay open - but no payments have been made so far.
Following a joint announcement by Education Minister Peter Weir and Health Minister Robin Swann of a £12 million package of measures, the scheme is now open.
A letter sent two weeks ago outlined the process for accessing support to enable registered daycare settings, school-age childcare settings and childminders to remain open for vulnerable children and those of key workers. It explained what support is available for settings which remain closed and cannot reopen - helping to support the sustainability of the sector.
Those eligible for financial assistance received application forms last week. A high number of applications is expected.
"We established the Covid-19 Childcare Support Scheme to enable childcare providers to meet the needs of key workers and vulnerable children at this very difficult time and to provide support to daycare and school age childcare settings, which are not able to remain open," Mr Weir said.
"I know that it is essential that we get financial support to settings and to childminders without further delay and we are committed to doing that."
Mr Swann added that the funding would ensure that childcare could be provided to key workers when and where it was needed.
"It will also be a support mechanism for vulnerable families. However, as stressed before, where childcare is provided, it must be done in a way which is as safe as possible in public health terms. That is why any provider planning to stay open or reopen needs to contact their local Health and Social Care Trust Early Years Team urgently. Trust Early Years Teams are available to provide any advice needed, including advice on safe care," he said.
"A high number of applications are expected and Business Services Organisation will aim to process these as quickly as possible. It is important that application forms are completed accurately to reduce the risk of delays in any payments due."
