Welsh Government Makes Childcare Rates Relief Permanent

The Welsh Government has permanently introduced 100% small business rates relief for registered childcare premises, saving the sector an estimated £3.4 million annually. This decision aims to alleviate financial pressures on nurseries, enabling them to invest in staff, create jobs, and potentially reduce fees for parents. Since the initial relief scheme began in 2019, it has provided essential support to childcare providers facing rising operational costs. Welsh Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden, emphasized the importance of this measure in ensuring the sustainability of high-quality childcare services. The initiative is part of a broader £100 million annual investment in childcare by the Welsh Government. This move has been welcomed by industry leaders, including Purnima Tanuku OBE from the National Day Nurseries Association, who highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by childcare providers.