Only two per cent of people who currently work in early years are male. Do you think there should be more effort to increase the numbers of men working in childcare and early years?
10 February 2010
Childcare costs still on the up - despite recession
Findings of Daycare Trust's ninth annual childcare costs survey, sponsored by Imagine Co-operative Childcare published.
Daycare Trust, the national childcare charity, today called for an election commitment from all parties to make greater investment in childcare, as the soaring cost of childcare across the UK was revealed.
The annual Childcare Costs Survey which is compiled from figures submitted by Family Information Services in England, Scotland and Wales, examines by region the cost of childminders, nurseries and after-school club provision based on 25 hours use a week (or 15 hours for after-school clubs).
Amongst the key findings, today's report reveals:
Commenting on today's survey, Daycare Trust Chief Executive Alison Garnham said:
"Over the last year, families across the UK have been hit hard by the impact of the recession, with parents facing the strain of losing jobs; having their hours cut back; or facing pay cuts - all of which is compounded further by childcare costs shooting up.
Daycare Tust is calling for the maximum proportion of childcare costs the poorest parents can claim through tax credits to be increased from 80% to 100%; and for the free entitlement be extended. In the light of the welfare reform programme, there is also an urgent need for more out-of school childcare provision. We would also urge all parents to check that they are claiming all the help that they are entitled to.
The difference that high quality, affordable childcare makes to a child's future, to family life and in reducing child poverty cannot be underestimated - for so many families, this is the kind of family support they need.
We know that whatever the outcome of the election, there are tough spending choices to be made. However, we hope that all parties will recognise what a central issue childcare is for parents, and take up our policy recommendations as they build their manifestos."
Following the survey, Daycare Trust has made the following key policy recommendations:
Ends.
NOTES TO EDITORS
Daycare Trust is the national childcare charity, campaigning for quality affordable accessible childcare for all and raising the voices of children, parents and carers. We advise parents and carers, providers, employers, trade unions and policymakers on childcare issues. We recognise that everyone is unique and we value difference in our communities. We listen to all views and are committed to act without prejudice.
Daycare Trust runs an Information Line on 0845 872 6251, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10.00am-1.00pm and 2.00pm-5.00pm, Wed 2.00pm-5.00pm (only). Parents can also visit www.daycaretrust.org.uk and www.payingforchildcare.org.uk for information.
Daycare Trust is a member of the Campaign to End Child Poverty, www.ecpc.org.uk.
Imagine Co-operative Childcare was the first social enterprise provider of Childcare Vouchers to the private and public sector, Government and Charities, and offer simple, effective schemes to help working parents with the costs of childcare with supportive account management at every step. For more information visit www.imagine.coop
The survey is compiled by survey responses from Family Information Services in England, Scotland and Wales, who provide information, advice and assistance to parents, carers and professionals on the range of children, family and young people's services available within their area.
Daycare Trust needs parents' views.
Daycare Trust introduces the Family Information Directory.
Survey results revealed.
New guide helps you with your childcare options.
Will you back our campaign to make childcare a priority issue in the new parliament?
| 
| 
