The initial hourly rate was set using data from the Self-Assessment of Service Statement Data Collection (SASS) by Care Inspectorate Wales report 2017. The evaluation of year 2 of the Offer and showed that 79% of settings agreed that the £4.50 hourly rate was commercially viable. However we recognise that things have moved on and a review to understand the impact of the hourly rate paid to providers under the Offer commenced in 2019. This was paused due to the pandemic but has now restarted. We are currently in the process of reviewing the hourly rate for childcare paid for through our Childcare Offer for Wales scheme and hope to have an outcome to share with stakeholders in late Autumn.
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Welsh Government 08.10.21