Co-operative Childcare seeks ‘co-op’ chair to lead parent panel

Co-operative Childcare is looking for an independent chair to lead a parent advisory panel.

The childcare provider, a part of Midcounties Co-operative, is looking to launch the panel over the summer and wants to embed co-operative values into its structure.

Mike Abbott, group general manager for the Co-operative Childcare, explains: “As a co-operative, our ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others underpin our service to  children and parents. We’ve found that regular and honest communication is the key to building this trust with parents.

“This feedback is particularly important within the childcare sector because leaving their children with someone else can be a strain for parents, and will undoubtedly leave some with questions about their chosen childcare provider.

“This is why we are introducing the Parent Advisory Panel – a group of parent volunteers whose children attend one of our nurseries across the country, who meet to give a voice to parents. They are able to discuss best practice and act as a consultative body on a range of issues, from the food available at the nursery to wider issues, such as how nurseries communicate with parents.”

Co-operative Childcare runs 49 nurseries across the country, and is looking for someone with a co-operative background to lead the panel.

Adds Mr Abbot: “Talking to parents and allowing them an open forum to have their say builds trust and provides a valuable way of listening to ideas and concerns. From a wider perspective, seeking the views of parents helps to ensure that the needs of children and their families remain our number one priority. We consistently provide all children with high quality care and education that we are proud of, in an environment that children really enjoy and thrive in.

“Communication is what truly makes the co-operative movement different, and opportunities like our parent advisory panel ensure that parents and members really see the benefit of their choice.”

• If interested in the role and for more details, email: [email protected]