Healthcare workers childcare scheme due to start on Monday has been cancelled

Unfortunate news.

The childcare scheme planned for healthcare workers due to start next week had been cancelled. In a statement, the Department of Children confirmed that the childcare scheme would not be going ahead as only  six providers indicated a willingness to take part in the scheme. The scheme initially planned to have approximately 5,000 early year educators providing childcare in the homes of healthcare workers. Understandably, many childcare providers were concerned that their insurance would not cover them for any COVID-19 related claims should they partake in the new scheme. Due to this concern very few childcare providers have taken up the scheme which has led to its cancellation, at least for the time being. In a statement confirming the cancellation of the scheme, the Department of Children said;

"A variety of reasons have been put forward for the low sign-up rate. "These include availability of insurance cover, concerns about possible virus transmission, difficulties in meeting employer responsibilities in relation to breaks and rest periods, and concerns about a lack of protection for staff working alone."

Although it is very unfortunate that the new scheme will not go ahead I can understand why childcare workers are apprehensive. All of these issues should have been worked out ahead of the new scheme being announced. Even before lockdown many creches and childcare facilities were struggling and now even more so than ever. Hopefully some sort of new scheme can be put in place to help healthcare workers that works for both frontline staff and early year educators.