The Southampton Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership

The Southampton Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership formed in 1998 and consists of representatives of the voluntary, private and statutory sectors. Its job is to interpret and put into action the National Childcare Strategy on a local basis. This means making sure there is enough provision, a good variety of it, in the right place and of the right quality.

The Partnership doesn't actually provide childcare, but encourages new provision, supports existing providers, and informs parents about their childcare choices.

The Partnership is supported by a team, which is managed by the City Council. The team is directed by the Partnership.

In Southampton, the Partnership is energetic, committed and participative. The Partners are involved in preparing, delivering and monitoring the Partnership plans. Working groups are made up of Partners, team members and other representatives, and they meet regularly. It is truly an interagency body and is committed to joint working. This means the plans are very much based on needs in Southampton and are influenced by feedback and consultation.

Click on the links on the left to find out more about the work of the Partnership.