Introduction

For the last year, the independent Commission for Childcare Reform has been investigating how best childcare provision in Scotland might be organised, delivered and paid for. Our interest is in ensuring that families who wish to, can access high-quality, affordable, flexible and convenient childcare, which in all circumstances meets the needs of the child.

This interim report sets out our high-level proposals for change. These proposals are firmly rooted in the discussions we have had over the last year with parents, providers, employers and other key interest groups across civic society, business and government in Scotland.

Our report is deliberately provisional at this point and includes draft recommendations. We are providing it as a focus for debate. We will be seeking to consult widely over coming months on its contents, to help establish where consensus most firmly lies across civic society as to how best to deliver the changes needed.

We expect to publish our final report this summer which will include, at that point, our firm recommendations for reform.