From Pavee Point’s Education Programme comes an explainer for two new action plans published by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality (DCDE): ‘Shaping the Future: Early Years Action Plan (Phase 1)’; and ‘Simplify and Support: Action Plan for Simplification’. The action plans focus on improving affordability, quality and sustainability in childcare.
‘Shaping the Future: Early Years Action Plan (Phase 1)’ aims to enhance the affordability, accessibility and quality of childcare, while supporting providers. Phase 1 of the plan will focus on actions delivered in 2026, with Phase 2 (2027–2029) to be shaped by public consultation taking place later in 2026.
‘Simplify and Support: Action Plan for Simplification’ aims to cut red tape for families, providers, educators and practitioners accessing and operating in the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector. The plan aims to simplify processes and regulations while maintaining standards for child safety and service quality; eliminate duplication and unnecessary bureaucracy; and to utilise better digital systems and clearer procedures.
Follow the link for Pavee Point’s walkthrough of the particulars of the respective plans: Note on the launch of two new Action Plans for the Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare Sector