More childcare spaces could be on the way for Delta.
The city received $25,000 in funding from the Union of B.C. Municipalities to undertake a childcare needs assessment in order to understand the needs, costs and types of childcare residents require. Noting it’s an important step that could open the door to additional childcare spaces in the city, civic social planner Gillian McLeod told council at its May 6th meeting that the assessment will be completed later this year. The city also contributed $5,000 for the study.
The most recent study was completed in 2006 by an external consultant and updated five years later with specific geographical breakdowns. According to a civic report, through many provincial meetings and workshop documents, it was apparent that childcare needs across the province, including Delta, are highest for ages 0-5.
“Other issues in B.C. include a lack of trained staff, low pay and an inability to find affordable housing for staff. The 19-year B.C. Childcare plan includes initiatives to attract, retain and train qualified Early Childhood Education staff and increase the number of childcare spaces,” the report explained.
The Delta Child and Youth Committee, through a “middle years” subcommittee, and anticipating funding commitments to support childcare planning, a couple of years ago began collecting information to support the development of a childcare needs assessment.
