Uniting NSW.ACT confirms closure of three services after strategic review

Not-for-profit early education and care provider Uniting NSW.ACT has confirmed that after the completion of a strategic portfolio review three early learning services located in New South Wales will be closed. 

The services, in Caringbah, Mascot, and Hornsby (Sarah’s Place), had experienced adverse operating conditions for a number of years as new centres continued to open and impact occupancy. 

The onset of COVID-19 and the difficulties faced by the organisation in securing additional funding during the pandemic have accelerated the decision to action the recommendations of the strategic review and close the services. 

Commenting Rod Nadwie-Smith, Head of Early Learning said “Today is a sad day for everyone here at Uniting. As a not-for-profit provider of Early Learning, our focus is to deliver the best outcomes for the people and communities we serve.” 

“Demand for these services has been falling for several years and unfortunately, COVID-19 has had a further significant impact on them. This deterioration plus challenges around securing funding during the pandemic has forced us to close the services earlier than we had planned.”

“We are sorry this decision will impact families and children, and our longstanding employees.”

Mr Nadwie-Smith also confirmed that Uniting were working with families to find alternative early learning arrangements in the local area and also were supporting team members with redeployment opportunities where possible.

The services are scheduled to be closed on 25 September 2020. 

To learn more about Uniting NSW.ACT Early Learning please click here.