MyEDC

    Technical Notes 2026, Issue 7 - Early Years Childcare – Eligibility for 3 Year Olds: Response from Scottish Government

    • Report by:

      Ann Davie, Chief Executive

    • TN Number:

      007-26

    • Subject:

      Early Years Childcare – Eligibility for 3 Year Olds: Response from Scottish Government

    • Responsible Officer:

      Ann Davie, Chief Executive

    • Publication:

      This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.

    At its meeting on 2nd October 2025, East Dunbartonshire Council considered the following Motion in relation to Early Years Childcare – Eligibility for 3 Year Olds.

    Motion

    “Council notes that prior to the last budget 3 year olds were eligible for a place in Early Years and Childcare from the day after their third birthday.

    In order to save £757,000, the Council moved to a policy in line with the legislation enacted by the Scottish Parliament.

    The legislation means that some children lose out compared to others. For example, a child turning 3 on the 1st March is eligible from the 1st August, the same as a child born on the 31st July.

    This Council believes that the legislation should be amended so eligibility starts the day after the child’s third birthday irrespective of when they were born.

    Council therefore instructs the Chief Executive to write to the First Minister and Leaders of the Parties within the Scottish Parliament confirming our support for the change described above to the change in eligibility for Early Years and Childcare.

    East Dunbartonshire Council would also call on any legislative changes to be fully funded by the Scottish Government.”

    A copy of the response from Natalie Don-Innes MSP, Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, is attached for Members’ information.

    Appendix