Adequacy of early years funding in Hampshire

That this House notes with concern the mounting pressures facing the early years sector following the rise in employer National Insurance contributions; further notes the widening gap between the funding needed to deliver high quality early years care and the funding actually provided under the Government's childcare scheme, and the strain this is placing on staffing levels, particularly at senior level; highlights that quality early years education remains one of the best investment this country can make in its future; recognises the vital role early years settings play in closing the attainment gap, preparing children for school, and enabling parents, particularly women, to return to work; celebrates the dedication and hard work of nursery staff across North East Hampshire constituency and the UK, who deliver essential support for children and families every day; and calls on the Government to conduct an urgent review ensuring funding rates reflect the true cost of delivering high quality care, to exempt early years providers from the rise in employer National Insurance contributions, and to set out a long-term career strategy for the workforce that underpins this vital sector.