Down Lisburn Childcare Childcare Partnership

What is it?

The Partnership is a group of people who have knowledge and expertise in child care. We use this expertise to effectively plan childcare services for children aged 0-14 years across the Down Lisburn area. We try to ensure where possible that childcare services are accessible to all and provide the highest quality of service.

Who are we?

We are represented by a number of voluntary, statutory private and community organisations. Each organisation has an equal voice and position when it comes to making decisions

There are currently three sub-groups operating within the Partnership. They are:

• Training and Quality
• Information and PR
• Special Needs

Each group’s remit is guided by the ECP, however there is a responsibility to ensure local early years needs are identified and responded to locally and at ECP level.

What do we do?

Through sharing of information, identifying childcare needs and highlighting gaps we aim to raise the profile and quality of Early Years Services for children aged 0-14 years.

How will we do this?

• We intend to consult with key people across our district and try to respond to their particular childcare needs, which will inform the planning of the Partnership.
• We intend to continue supporting our local community groups by way of capacity support and training.
• We intend to share information in an open fashion so that people are up date with information on Early Years.
• We intend to keep ‘Children First’ central to our planning.
• We intend to promote quality standards via accreditation schemes.
• We intend to ensure local needs are accurately reflected in all aspects of our work and our plans.

Where are we?

If you require any further information or would like to inform the Partnership of particular childcare issues in your area please contact sonya.mcguckin@setrust.hscni.net.