Explore Play Wales
The Welsh Government’s Children and Families Research Team has published two qualitative research reports exploring the perspectives of and experiences Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people, in relation to playwork and childcare. One report focuses on the experiences of people working in the childcare and playwork sector, whilst the other explores the perspectives of parents who use childcare and playwork services.
Qualitative research on the experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people of working in the childcare and playwork sector in Wales
This report focuses on qualitative research exploring the experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people working in, volunteering in, or training to enter the childcare and playwork sector. The research was commissioned by the Welsh Government to inform implementation of childcare actions within the Anti-racist Wales Action Plan (ArWAP), particularly in relation to workforce development and inclusion.
The research aimed to explore:
- motivations for entering the sector
- experiences of inclusion, belonging and support
- barriers to entry, retention and progression
- experiences of racism or bias
- views on training and career development
- what would make the sector more inclusive and supportive.
Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals who self-identified as being from ethnic minority backgrounds. Participants included seven individuals currently working in childcare and playwork roles, four volunteers and two trainees intending to enter the sector.
In the report, the researchers note: ‘As a qualitative study based on a small sample, the findings are not statistically representative. They provide in-depth insight into lived experience and highlight themes that may inform policy and practice.’
Adding: ‘Continued engagement with lived experience will be important to monitor progress and to support the development of a more inclusive and sustainable childcare and playwork workforce in Wales.’
Perspectives and experiences of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic families in Wales: A qualitative study on childcare and playwork service use
This study explores how life experiences, cultural influences, and family preferences shape the use of Early Childhood Play, Learning and Care (ECPLC) services among Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic families. It also aims to identify key barriers families face in finding suitable options, understanding and applying for entitlements, and using services. This includes exploring the challenges families encounter in accessing provision, and the factors that encourage uptake, with particular attention to how these dynamics affect ethnic minority families.
The report presents the findings from qualitative research conducted in collaboration with 20 parents from ethnic minority families with children aged up to eight years old, living in three local authority areas in Wales: Cardiff, Gwynedd and Rhondda Cynon Taf. Given the small scale of this study, and the limited amount of time spent with families, findings provide an indicative insight only.
Concluding the report, the researchers note: ‘Parents valued childcare for its role in children’s socialisation, school readiness, and emotional development. Childcare also provided essential support for parental wellbeing, employment, and community integration. Ensuring accessible, culturally sensitive, and affordable childcare provision is therefore essential for improving outcomes for ethnic minority families across Wales.’