The aim of the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment (CSA), is to identify the largest or most serious gaps in Ealing's childcare provision. The last CSA was published in March 2008 with annual updates in 2009 and 2010.
The report looks at the supply and demand for childcare and explores the potential gaps in the childcare market:
-
geographical gaps - general lack of childcare in an area
-
specific need gaps - shortage of childcare for disabled children
-
income gaps - lack of affordable childcare
-
flexibility gaps - shortage of childcare at the times required by parents
-
age gaps - shortage of childcare suited to children of a certain age group
- type gaps - shortage of particular types of childcare
The views of parents, children, childcare providers and local employers were collected through surveys. Other organisations with an interest in childcare such as Jobcentre Plus and local colleges were also consulted.
The latest CSA report: 2011 Childcare Sufficiency Assessment report (pdf)