Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council (BMBC) is reviewing a proposal to transfer six Family Hub nurseries to private operators, citing an annual taxpayer subsidy of over £480,000. The council argues that private providers could expand services, including offering at least 30 hours of childcare and year-round availability, which the public model cannot sustain.
The nurseries under review are located in Thurnscoe, Worsbrough, Athersley, Grimethorpe, Penistone, and Wombwell. BMBC’s cabinet member for core services, Councillor Robert Frost, stated that the priority is maintaining high-quality early years education while better aligning services with family needs.
The GMB Union opposes the move, launching a campaign and an online petition against privatization. The council’s final decision will be discussed at a special budget meeting on February 27.
