The city is undertaking a childcare needs assessment.
The most recent was completed in 2006 by an external consultant and updated five years later with specific geographical breakdowns. According to a recent civic report, through many provincial meetings and workshop documents, it is apparent that childcare needs across the province, including Delta, are highest for ages 0-5.
“Other issues in BC include a lack of trained staff, low pay and an inability to find affordable housing for staff. The 19-year BC Childcare plan includes initiatives to attract, retain and train qualified Early Childhood Education staff and increase the number of childcare spaces,” the report explains.
The Delta Child and Youth Committee, through a “middle years” subcommittee, and anticipating funding commitments to support childcare planning, early last year began collecting information to support the development of a childcare needs assessment. The study is expected to cost around $30,000 to complete. The city will apply for the maximum $25,000 in funding through the UBCM Community Childcare Planning Program, while Delta will pay for the remainder of the cost.
The school district has also begun a review of childcare needs in Delta following the reinstatement of previous class size limits which created the need for more classroom spaces in schools. The civic report notes that, fortunately, few childcares were affected in Delta schools the first year.
