The NDNA will help nurseries, pre-schools and childminders accessservices, training, and information, as well as running businesssurgeries and offering one-on-one advice and tailored support.
NDNA chief executive Purnima Tanuku said Thurrock was an example of howlocal authorities are looking for innovative ways to support and engagechildcare provision as part of meeting their duties under the ChildcareAct 2006.
She said, 'We are delighted to have been successful with this tender,and believe that the business support we deliver will prove invaluableto providers across the area. In the current economic climate it isvital to be aware of the help and support that is out there, and be ableto access advice to support sustainability.'
Sue Green, head of Thurrock Early Years, echoed this. She said,'Providers are expressing that there have been some changes, and moreparents without jobs are choosing to look after their children ratherthan take them to nursery.
'The support from the NDNA will have an additional focus on pro-activesupport rather than just reactive support as in the past.'
The service to Thurrock Council is being provided as part of the NDNASolutions Package.
Over the coming weeks the NDNA will recruit a business developmentmanager who will support providers by offering a range of services,including sustainability master classes to help nurseries set their feesat the right level, business surgeries and financial advice.
It will also help providers get involved in the local childcare agendaand facilitate the sharing of news and views.