Operator set to reopen childcare centres
THE operator of several childcare facilities across north Down has said a reopening is “imminent” and she hopes to be taking in children from next Monday.
Christine Beckett, who operates four Happy Days childcare centres, said that while it had been the most challenging time of her career, the opening of facilities was crucial to allow the economy to get back to work.
“This has been a very challenging time for absolutely everyone,” she told BBC Radio Ulster.
“I’ve been providing childcare for almost 30 years.
“These are the most challenging situations I’ve ever been in.
“Government guidelines are very good and precise.
“There’s Covid infection training in place.
“It’s really crucial now that Government come on board and further support us to get reopened because our whole economic structure depends on childcare to a great degree.
“All my staff have had their Covid guidance and certificates. They are a very experienced staff.
“The difficulty has been socially distancing the staff rather than the children.
“We can keep the children in very small groups and we’ve had planned days acting out scenarios.
“We’re fortunate that all the nurseries have very large rooms so we’re now able to socially distance the staff and keep the children in those small groups.
“We also have a lot of outdoor play space so that thankfully, with the weather good, we can get outside as often as we can.”
However, Jacqueline O’loughlin, chief executive of Playboard NI, said it remains vital that all childcare facilities take clear heed of guidance from the regulatory social services inspectorate.
“The advice that I understand is that we’re not to open unless it’s for the vulnerable workers,” she said.
“Yes, we have Covid training but there are other considerations. We need to look at social distancing, PPE, rotas for staff, before we can be comfortable. We have been informed that we must contact social services teams before taking on any reopening of services.
“The majority shut down overnight in March, staff were furloughed. It’s very challenging to get back up and running again.”
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