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?
29 March 2010
Daycare Trust, the national childcare charity, has today published research which shows that over two-thirds of mothers would be less likely to vote for a party that cut free childcare places or tax credits. The charity, along with Bounty Parenting Club, surveyed 2,500 mothers and asked how the political parties' childcare policies would affect their voting intention in the forthcoming General Election.
To illustrate to the parties the issues important to mothers, the charity has launched its Daycare Trust Childcare Charter, a six point manifesto designed to put the issue of childcare at the heart of the election. As well as free places and tax credits, it calls upon the next Government to improve the quality of childcare and protect Sure Start Children's Centres.
The research found that:
Commenting on the findings, Alison Garnham, Chief Executive of Daycare Trust said:
"Our survey shows that any party hoping for success at this election must prove they are serious about giving families the support they need, and set out a clear commitment to invest in childcare.
The fact that these policies are so significant to the mothers we spoke to shows the progress that has been made in recent years, but there is still a long way to go. Parents across the country are telling us more needs to be done - that's why today we are publishing Daycare Trust's childcare charter, outlining the policies that will make a real difference to families, and asking all parliamentary candidates to give it their backing.
In the run up to the election, we are hearing speeches and sound-bites from politicians about children and families every day. However, in reality it is firm policy promises on issues such as flexible working; more financial help with childcare, and improved childcare provision that will not only win votes but also really deliver support for families."
Policy recommendations:
The Childcare Charter sets out six policies that Daycare Trust is calling on the next government to implement:
ENDS .
Notes to editors
Politicians, parents, childcare providers and other supporters are being asked to sign up and show their support for Daycare Trust's Childcare Charter, by visiting www.daycaretrust.org.uk or emailing campaigns@daycaretrust.org.uk
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.endchildpoverty.org.uk.
For further information, to arrange interviews, or for a copy of Daycare Trust's Childcare Charter and the ‘Keeping Mum: Childcare as a vote winning issue' research, please contact Veronica King in Daycare Trust press office on 0207 940 7525 (out of hours 07796 886 648) or vking@daycaretrust.org.uk.
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