Affordable childcare difficult
Following the launch of the Daycare Trust’s
annual childcare costs survey, NCMA has called for sustained
support to help parents meet the cost of quality childcare.
Andrew Fletcher, Joint Chief Executive of NCMA, commented:
"We support the Daycare Trust’s recommendations that Government
ensures the availability of affordable childcare, particularly for
those parents struggling to access places, such as families with
disabled children, or those living in areas of deprivation.
"We know from our own research that many childminders are finding
it challenging to sustain their business, with many struggling to
break even. Parents too are finding it challenging to meet
childcare costs, particularly those seeking to return to
work.
"Sustainable childcare is necessary to ensure that consistent
provision is available for families who need it. Addressing
challenges of sustainable, affordable childcare requires a
coordinated approach from government at a national and local level,
with sustained investment essential across the sector."