As we are responsible for administering early years free entitlements, we have to do compliance checks. We need to verify providers are claiming free entitlements in line with government guidance.
We will select a small number of providers from each sector for a compliance check each term.
Most checks will be conducted virtually, with a small sample conducted on site.
These checks will include verification of the following:
- funding claims are backed by completed and signed Parent Declaration Forms
- children are attending for the hours claimed
- providers are not charging a top up fee
- providers have terms and conditions that meet the requirement set out in the Provider Agreement
- invoices meet the requirements set out in the Provider Agreement
Copies of the following documents will be requested from you:
- parent declaration forms for the selected children
- attendance registers for the dates selected
- invoices for the children selected
- your current free entitlement funding policy including fees and charges (if available) or your prospectus (if this details your free entitlement offer) or your current fees and charges (if not included in the above)
- a complaints process which is published and accessible to parents
If following a virtual compliance check, it is deemed necessary, a more in-depth onsite check may be arranged.
After a check
After completion of a compliance check (virtual and onsite), providers will receive a written report.
Where necessary, this will include any remedial action required to bring a provider’s policies, procedures, or documentation in line with the requirements set out in the Provider Agreement.
If the remedial action is not implemented within the timescales stated in the report, the provider may be judged to be in breach of the statutory requirements. This may result in the withdrawal of funding.
Where withdrawal of funding is required, we will work with providers to contact the parents of funded children, explaining the reason for withdrawing funding and the available options. Where appropriate we will work with parents to arrange alternate provision for funded children.
If you have any questions or queries relating to checks, contact the Early Years Team by email: ehbs@bracknell-forest.gov.uk