In its State of the Nation report out today the association says that the Government should urgently review the 30 hours childcare policy to ensure that early years settings are adequately funded to provide food.
Free healthy lunches should be provided for the most disadvantaged children as part of their entitlement, in line with the entitlement for free school meals.
The report highlights funding shortages for the 30 hours, describing how early years settings are making ends meet by charging extra for food or asking parents to bring in snacks and packed lunches.
The report says, ‘In failing to provide adequate funding for the 30 hours free childcare policy, the Government is heightening the risk that many children in the early years are failing to enjoy an adequate diet, entrenching the inequalities in diet and health that are present from birth.'
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here