Council’s WRAC Creche to close
NEWS RELEASE
8 December 2014
Council’s WRAC Creche to close
The crèche operated at the Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre will be closing at the end of next week.
Wellington City Council conducted a review recently that found high compliance costs and duty of care concerns meant it was untenable to keep the facility open.
Increased compliance requirements have limited the type of service Council can deliver, impacting on Council’s ability to recruit staff with the appropriate experience and qualifications to operate a quality and safe service.
Creche attendance has been dropping over a number of years and currently only achieves 30% occupancy despite a number of attempts to promote the service.
“Whilst Council staff have always provided an excellent service, the childcare landscape has changed significantly over the last few years. The safety, health and welfare of the children is paramount and Council can’t ensure we can continue to operate a high quality service,” says Councillor Sarah Free, Community Facilities Portfolio Leader.
The crèche was originally provided as a service for parents wanting to take some time out to swim or use the gym at the Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre. However in recent years, fewer parents are using the Aquatic Centre facilities when they drop their children off at the crèche.
Council acknowledges that some parents value this service and is working with them to find alternative solutions to meet their childcare needs.