Scots childcare 

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NOF has launched a £14.5m round 3 childcare funding programme for Scotland, ‘New Opportunities for Quality Childcare’. The three-year mixed capital and revenue programme has three main strands: capital projects in disadvantaged localities, such as play areas, outdoor facilities and equipment such as playbuses or toy libraries in rural areas; support for children with special needs, including family liaison work or staff training; and support for family needs, such as childcare places for parents who are in work, education or training. Funds may also be used for workforce development (but not professional qualifications) and projects that integrate childcare with out-of-school-hours learning.

The scheme is being coordinated through Local Childcare Partnerships, to whom indicative allocations have been made. NOF Scotland wants to strengthen the strategic role of the childcare partnerships in directing funds to the most needed areas and ensuring quality provision. Portfolio bids from the childcare partnerships must be submitted by February 2003 so groups who wish to be part of the portfolio should contact their local partnership without delay. Phone NOF Scotland on 0141 242 7806 for more information about your LCP officer. Match funding is not required, but evidence of partnership is preferred.