Omicron Brings Uncertainty as 2021 Comes to a Close

For the second year in a row, the childcare sector is heading into December under a cloud of pandemic-induced uncertainty. The new Omicron variant of Covid-19 is leading to increased restrictions and at the time of writing the government’s ‘Plan B’ measures are about to come into effect. Although it is highly unlikely that the sector would be asked to close again as it was in early 2020, new restrictions could still have a knock-on impact, and of course the unregulated sector, especially indoor play venues, might be directly affected.

In the longer term, another round of enforced working from home is likely to further embed changes to the economy that have had a significant impact on some childcare settings, especially those providing wrap around care. Policy makers would be well advised to take account of this, and ensure that in the event of further restrictions, providers of these vital services are still in a position to operate sustainable businesses. Both major parties have had a reshuffle recently and so the newly appointed childcare minister Will Quince, and Helen Hayes, his opposite number of the Labour Party may have their work cut out for them.

Of course, covid restrictions are a devolved matter and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland often take different approaches to England. In fact, it was often the case that the devolved administrations were first in making their announcements of new restrictions. As ever, everyone should keep a close eye on announcements from their governments and local authorities, and do their best to keep up to date with the latest guidance.

Read the updated government guidance from December 2021 - Actions for early years and childcare providers during the Covid pandemic