The Scottish Executive have extended this commitment to their own staff who may now gain access to a carers' information pack containing advice on employment issues and sources of advice and support. As important, is the provision of early education and childcare facilities . Programme for Government document . The objective is to give young children the benefit of high quality education and care, and through improved childcare services, to help families balance work and family life. Childcare is not something that central government can deliver.
Provision needs to respond to local needs and local circumstances.
Local authorities have been asked to convene local childcare partnerships, having taken account of the views of parents, gathered through audits of supply and demand for childcare. This means that the substantial new funds for childcare can be properly targeted. The long-term aim is to ensure good quality, affordable childcare for children aged 0 to 14 throughout Scotland. There will be a further 25 million in Scotland over the years 1999-2003 in lottery resources distributed by the New Opportunities Fund. I have given you a flavour of the legislation this Government have introduced to ensure employees with home responsibilities have access to employment without fear of it being held against them.