Ratios could be relaxed in coronavirus ‘action plan’
By Rachel Lawler
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has advised that current rules on staff to children ratios in both schools and childcare settings could be relaxed in the event of a coronavirus pandemic, as part of a wider ‘’ revealed today.
The action plan advises how the government plans to contain and delay the spread of the virus and explains steps people can take to protect themselves.
The UK is still currently in the first phase of the plan – containing the spread.
The government is not currently recommending that early years settings close – unless advised otherwise by Public Health England.
In later stages, the government says that it may advise businesses to consider allowing employees to work from home and may ask the public to reconsider unnecessary travel plans.
The Prime Minister also reminded the public that basic hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus. He said: “Crucially, we must also not forget what we can all do to fight this virus, which is to wash our hands with soap and water for the length of time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice.
“It’s simple advice but it’s the single most important thing we can all do."
Neil Leitch, chief executive of the Alliance, added: “These are unprecedented circumstances and so we fully recognise that the early years sector needs to adapt as necessary, both to help prevent the further spread of coronavirus as far as possible, and also to deal with the possible consequences of the virus, such as an increase in members of staff calling in sick or being required to self-isolate.
"That said, existing childcare ratios are in place for a reason, and so any temporary adjustments made to current rules must still ensure that child safety and wellbeing are not compromised. Relaxing ratios in an early years setting is not the same as relaxing class size standards in a primary or secondary setting, and any such changes should not be lumped together.
"As such, we hope any decisions made in this regard will be considered and well-thought-out, and not simply a knee-jerk reaction that ignores the specific care needs and requirements of very young children."
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