Funding for the Early Years and Childcare Entitlement

Quality Thresholds

In accordance with the Department for Education Early Education and Childcare Statutory Guidance, funding may be suspended or removed where:

• Ofsted judgement is Inadequate or Not Met
• Quality requirements are not met
• Safeguarding or fundamental values concerns exist

Bolton Council considers continuity of care before withdrawing funding.

Appeals Process

Providers may appeal within 14 calendar days of notification.

Appeals:

• Are heard by an independent panel
• Must include supporting evidence
• Decisions are confirmed in writing

Further complaints may be made through Bolton Council’s complaints process

If a provider wishes to object to the appeals decision, it will then be taken as a complaint towards the Local Authority and be treated as such by progressing it through Bolton Council’s Complaints Policy http://www.bolton.gov.uk/website/pages/complaints.aspx . The appeal decision will stand and be implemented whilst the complaints procedure is underway.

If a provider is dissatisfied with their treatment under this appeals procedure, they may make a complaint to the Local Government Ombudsman (see Complaints Procedure section for contact details) after the full appeals procedure with Bolton Council has been exhausted. http://www.lgo.org.uk/