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Childcare policies will determine mothers' vote, new research shows

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:

• The 12.5 hours free childcare a week that all 3 & 4 year olds are entitled to is the most important childcare policy to mothers, with 69% saying they would be less likely to vote for a party that reduced or removed the free entitlement.
• This was closely followed by measures that help parents with the huge financial burden of childcare - a removal or reduction in tax credits would make 67% of mothers less likely to vote for a party that cut them, and a limit or reduction in childcare vouchers would put off 60%.
• Mothers have clearly seen the benefits to their children from Sure Start Children's Centres and the Child Trust Fund, and were protective of these services as a result, with 54% and 57% respectively saying that any party that failed to protect these initiatives would suffer at the polls.

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:

• 1. Aim to spend 1% of GDP on early childhood education and care so that all children get the best start in life
• 2. Extend free places to ensure that all children benefit from early childhood education and care
• 3. Extend parental leave and make workplaces family friendly
• 4. Fill the gaps in provision and guarantee extended schools
• 5. Make childcare affordable for all parents
• 6. Celebrate Sure Start Children's Centres and extend the range of services on offer

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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