Guidance & Support

Whether you’re new to the area or an established group, CALA can offer you up-to-date advice as well as practical support. CALA also offers a range of services that are specifically targeted at the many professional managers and staff who work in the Early Years, Daycare, and Out of School care sector. 

Areas of Advice & Support

Child Protection Guidance
• Access these guidelines here

Childhood Practice Guidance
• Access these guidelines here

Committee Support – Gateway Project
• Since 2005, CALA has been offering this free service to voluntary committees responsible for the management of Partner Centres and Out of School clubs. For more information go to our Gateway page.

Employment Issues
• Looking for guidance with recruitment, employment, pay roll, or employment legislation? Contact 01349 866749 (Dingwall Office)
• Disclosure Scotland (PVG Scheme) - CALA can undertake these safety checks on your behalf. Access more information here.
• Needing Relief Cover? CALA’s Staffbank may be able to help.

Environmental Policy
• Wanting to adopt an environmental policy for your group? Use CALA’s Environmental Policy as a starting point.

Funding
• If you are providing services and support to children with learning/care needs you can access advice from CALA on how to proceed with funding applications.
• Small Group Grant - This is available to non-commissioned groups who are struggling to meet the costs of their rent and heating. Information is sent out to groups in October and requests for assistance are decided in December.

Improvement Planning
• Access your improvement planning material here.

Insurance Cover
• CALA offers easy access to full, comprehensive, cost effective insurance.

Literature & Resources
• CALA has a wide list of literature suitable for all age ranges dealing with issues and opportunities in childcare and family support.

Networking
• CALA helps create local forums to exchange good practice, make friends and contribute to shared learning. Professionals working in the sector can access CALA’s networks and gain invaluable insights on what is happening elsewhere whilst contributing to the promotion of good practice.

Quality Assurance
• Looking for continual improvement at your centre? Contact CALA to discuss the range of programmes on offer.

Start-ups
• For new Toddler, Early Years and Out of School groups, we can provide advice, information and, possibly, some financial help with your start up plans.