Public Performance Reporting

Childcare Services

In line with the Childcare Strategy for Scotland, we aim to ensure good quality, affordable childcare is available for children aged 0-14 years.

In addition to offering information in book form, many major works of reference are now available in electronic form. All our libraries have "Try IT" facilities offering free internet access and a wide range of software for both learning and leisure.

We work with local people, voluntary agencies, private providers and other Council departments to develop and support flexible childcare services for local communities in South Ayrshire. We support day nurseries, childminders, out of school care groups and playgroups.

All Council childcare workers are appropriately trained to ensure delivery of quality services in line with the “National Care Standards and the Regulation of Care and the Social Services Workforce”.

The Council provides out of school care clubs in Coylton, Dundonald, Tarbolton Mossblown and Muirhead Activity Centres and Symington Pavilion.

We support a family centre in Girvan, nursery places for 0-3 year olds in Cherry Tree Nursery, Ayr, and for 2 year olds in Tarbolton, Wallacetown and Harthall and full day care for 3 year olds in Muirhead, Girvan, Annbank, Braehead, Gardenrose and Kingcase Primary Schools.

The SureStart initiative helps vulnerable families with young children to improve children’s social and emotional development and their health and ability to learn, and strengthen families and communities.

Crisis support is provided for families with children aged 0-3 years and respite services for very young children affected by disability.

Fit Ayrshire Babies encourages play at home and Sessional Childcare provides crèche facilities for parents and carers taking part in learning opportunities.

In partnership with East and North Ayrshire Councils we fund the Childcare and Recreation Information Service that lists childcare providers in each community.