Settings Close as Bank Holiday Marks Passing of Her Majesty
Settings Close as Bank Holiday Marks Passing of Her Majesty
After a reign of 70 years, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on 9th September, with her son becoming King Charles III. All across the country, people marked the end of an era. While the vast majority of British citizens have never known anything but a Queen, it is now unlikely that the youngest will know any monarch but a King. The demise of the crown – as the passing of a monarch and the accession of their successor is technically known – has brought home in many ways how integrated the monarchy is into the fabric of the nation. From stamps, currency and the national anthem, there will be many changes. Even Ofsted is now run by His Majesty’s Chief Inspector.
The Queen’s funeral was held on Monday 19th September, and one of the first acts of Charles III on his accession was to approve a Privy Council order that it should be a bank holiday. While few doubt that this was an appropriate step, there were challenges for businesses, including the childcare sector, in facilitating a sudden closure. In particular, settings struggled with whether to still charge parents who had booked the day, and it was not immediately clear whether money for funded places would still be paid. On the whole though, most providers seem to have adapted successfully, with many being able to allow their staff the day off.
Looking to the future, it is expected that the Coronation of King Charles will take place next summer, and it is likely there will be further bank holidays, as well as a sense of national celebration. As yet, no plans have been announced, though they should be announced in good time for businesses to make preparations.