Public Consultation on reducing the claim period for the Day Care Foods (Nursery Milk) Scheme in Northern Ireland

Overview

This consultation seeks views on reimbursement arrangements under The Healthy Start Scheme and Day Care Food Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.   

The Day Care Food Scheme (sometimes referred to as the Nursery Milk Scheme) provides free daily milk (or infant formula) to children under five attending approved day care facilities.  It is important to note that this consultation does not relate to the Day Care Foods Scheme itself but focuses specifically on the timeframe available to Day Care Providers when submitting claims for reimbursement.

Under current legislation, Day Care Providers are required to submit claims for reimbursement within 2 years following the period in which the milk or formula is provided. Whilst the majority of claims are submitted within 6 months, those which take longer have potential to create complications for the administration of the scheme. To address these issues, and obtain parity with equivalent schemes accross the UK, the Department of Health is proposing to reduce the claim period from 2 years to 6 months.

The aim of this consultation is to allow both Day Care Providers and the wider public; to share their views on the proposed reduction and highlight any impact this may have on their ability to participate in the Scheme.

Further information on Day Care Foods, including eligibility can be found on the BSO website 

Why your views matter

Your views will help ensure that the reimbursement arrangements under the scheme are practical, fair and effective. By sharing your experience, you can:

• Influence policy decisions on the timeframe for submitting claims
• Help identify any challenges or administrative burdens faced by providers
• Ensure the scheme operates smoothly, supporting timely reimbursement
• Contribute to maintaining access to this important nutritional support for young children

Taking part will help make sure the scheme continues to meet the needs of Day Care Providers and the children they support.