TEY-10.2

DR SHERRON CURTIS IS TACTYC’S VICE-CHAIR. Dr Sherron Curtis examines the effects of Covid-19 on the Early Years workforce and provision... T he return of early years settings has been a challenging time for many early years staff, it is important to take stock of the challenges we have yet to face and the lessons we have learnt in recent months. Staff Wellbeing With an increased number of children returning to their settings comes increased risk of infection. As we adapt to social distancing measures there is an added layer of complication for early years staff who are expected to look after babies and toddlers, which inevitably requires physical contact. These circumstances ultimately put the workforce under increased levels of stress, anxiety and fear – for them and their families. Understandably, staff across the workforce must protect their families’ health and wellbeing as well as their own. Many of those who work in early years settings will be facing issues around their own personal childcare, their own health and wellbeing if they have pre-existing health conditions and even the risk of infecting their loved ones who might be vulnerable or living with health complications. Early years practitioners are ‘stuck in the middle’ and seem to have been forgotten about again, although they are acutely aware of the physical care and attention necessary to support babies and toddlers and wish to continue to do their best for the families they support while recognising the potential risks for their own families. This will be particularly important in areas of deprivation, for families who have lost employment and are experiencing financial hardship. Strong evidence has been presented during this time to show that Covid-19 does not affect all population groups equally, exposing particular inequalities in health and access to services in the UK’s BAME communities. The pressure of supporting stressed and anxious families will inevitably take its toll on staff and contribute to an even more challenging work environment. In addition, there is a need for further improvements in multi-agency Challenging times Strong leadership At this time, it has never been more important for setting leaders to be present and supportive for their team. Returning to work poses many challenges so it is important for staff to feel they can share their concerns constructively and get support and guidance from their employers. This ongoing dialogue with the team will ensure a transparency of decision making. Employers should ensure that the correct procedures have been put in place and they are being followed consistently so staff and children are as safe as possible. Similarly, setting leaders should ensure they are supportive and prepared to listen to the parents, carers and their families within their settings. 38 Teachearlyyears.com