The Craighalbert Centre and Indigo Childcare Group want to hear your experiences of early learning and childcare

In March 2023, the Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments (Craighalbert Centre) in association with Indigo Childcare Group published a report following in-depth research carried out in 2022 which highlighted that families throughout Scotland experience widespread inequalities in access, choice, quality and sustainability of funded early learning and child care (ELC) for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) compared to children where there is no identified additional support need. The report recommended targeted strategies to enhance access to funded ELC placements for children with PMLD, thereby promoting equitable opportunities for all children (UNCRC Article 23).

Since the report was published, the Craighalbert Centre and Indigo Childcare Group along with partners, have lobbied Scottish Government to take action to reduce these inequalities. As it is now over two years from when the initial research was carried out the Craighalbert Centre and Indigo Childcare Group are keen to build on the evidence originally gathered from children and families with lived experience in accessing ELC in their local area. In particular, they are  looking to gather experiences which could include:

  • Families’ experiences in accessing ELC in the last five years
  • Experiences for siblings
  • Effect on employment for families
  • Effect on the mental health and wellbeing of families

The ALLIANCE is keen to support the evidence gathering and is inviting any interested stakeholders to reach out directly to the Craighalbert Centre to share their experiences and importantly what still needs to change to improve access for children with PMLD. You can get in touch by emailing Alicia McKenzie at Alicia@craighalbert.org.uk

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