Current status: Answered by Natalie Don-Innes on 19 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it has had with COSLA about ensuring that children can access funded early learning and childcare even when taking up a place outwith the local authority in which they live.
Local authorities have a statutory duty to make available funded ELC to the children residing within their own area and are also responsible for meeting the statutory guidance requirements in relation to cross-boundary provision.
In light of the representations from affected parents and providers, in 2024, the Minister for Children, Young People and the Promise highlighted concerns about consistency in cross-boundary provision at a national level to COSLA.
I have written to COSLA again on 12 March 2026, highlighting the importance of this issue and asking them to work in partnership with national Government to find solutions that work for all of Scotland’s children and families.