Permanent Business Rates Relief for Childcare Providers in Wales

Permanent Business Rates Relief for Childcare Providers in Wales 

The Welsh Government has made non-domestic rates relief for childcare premises permanent, saving the sector an estimated £3.4 million annually. This important support will allow childcare providers to invest in staff, create new jobs, and help keep fees affordable for parents. Since 2019, registered childcare settings, including day nurseries, have benefited from rates relief, helping them manage rising costs and continue providing essential services. Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden, said: “Making business rates relief permanent will provide stability and help providers reinvest savings to continue delivering high-quality, affordable childcare.” Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language, Mark Drakeford, added: “This announcement is part of our £100m annual investment and commitment to sustaining and growing high-quality childcare. We want the sector to be financially sustainable, and this scheme will help reduce the risk of premises closing, benefiting families across Wales.” 

The decision has been welcomed by childcare providers across Wales. Purnima Tanuku OBE, Chief Executive of the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), said: “Permanently removing the burden of business rates is a positive step, providing certainty for nurseries and recognising the value of supporting the early years sector.” Abeer Bafaqih, Managing Director of Daisy Day Nursery, added: “At a time when families are stretching their income, the relief means we can continue offering reasonable fees and supporting our community.” This permanent relief will particularly benefit families and childcare providers in Wales, helping nurseries remain sustainable while continuing to provide safe, high-quality care for young children. 

To find out more visit: https://www.gov.wales/huge-boost-childcare-sector-wales-small-business-rates-relief-made-permanent