The Childcare Act 2006 places a range of duties on local authorities in regard to the provision of sufficient, sustainable and flexible childcare that is responsive to parents needs.

The Childcare Sufficiency Assessment Report sets out the supply of childcare and parental demand for childcare within Essex and has been carried out by Essex County Council. The parental needs aspect of the assessment was conducted by Coda Consultants.

This report enables Essex County Council to identify gaps and establish plans to ensure the provision of high quality, accessible and affordable childcare, which meets the needs of families living in the county and thereby to perform its Childcare Duty as outlined in the Children Act (2006).

Essex County Council's report on childcare sufficiency provides a measure and assessment of supply and demand for childcare within each county district, creating a detailed picture of local need. This enables consultation and planning to take place with relevant partners and childcare providers.