To the point...

Alan Bentley ('To the point', 17 May) raises some interesting personal views about representation. However, we need to correct him about his perception and the facts of NDNA's representative work.

What is 'representation'? Is it about shouting loudly that childcare isn't a licence to print money and about abuse of paid sick leave? NDNA believes not. Day nurseries have a diverse range of representative needs and a fair, reasoned voice is the only way for us to move forward. It is not just the nursery that needs representing, it's the staff too. That's why besides highlighting issues for nurseries, we are also calling for direct investment in salaries.

Representation covers a wide range of areas, from defending nurseries against critical press to influencing and challenging Government policy.

NDNA has been representing the views of the sector for years about these issues. In the past year alone we have responded to 20 consultations, and achieved the requirement that PVI providers are the first choice for childcare delivery by local authorities under the Childcare Act. With our members we have organised 700 articles and 300 interviews across national, broadcast and trade media.

The sector faces a stark choice - opt out of the whole agenda of the childcare strategy, or get on board to positively shape it. NDNA can ensure members can get involved and in this and actually deliver the vision of high quality childcare.

NDNA is not afraid to challenge when necessary. Our campaign on the free nursery education entitlement is an example of how constructive dialogue can address issues. NDNA understands that there are problems with the scheme, but the evidence-based proposals we have made appear in the current DfES consultation.

Representation is not only about highlighting problems but also highlighting positives. Our 'Healthy body, happy me' campaign saw 40 MPs pledge their support to the good work nurseries are doing for healthy eating. Thousands of parents submit nominations for our annual nursery awards.

Our mission of 'promoting quality in early years' sums up what representation is. In early years it is about showing everyone that yes, nurseries do have issues - but that their high quality service is vital to the future of childcare and without them this ambitious vision cannot be achieved.

It has taken NDNA many years to build its reputation as the 'voice of day nurseries' and to get a proper seat at the table of Government. The Government, MPs across all parties and local authorities recognise we are campaigning on behalf of the sector.

If we are to achieve the recognition this sector deserves, then we must work together. We all share the same vision of providing a fantastic service for children and families. Fragmenting into separate groups risks the sector becoming vulnerable at a time of great change. We need to work together and ensure that we are one voice.