Parents to be charged to use the free UK Childcare scheme

The promise of the 30hrs free childcare scheme made by the Conservative party may be under threat, as many nurseries are unable to offer the scheme due to the lack of funds being given by the government.

The doubling of the free entitlement could leave many childcare provoders operating at a loss, the amount being given to nurseries will not even cover staff costs, therefore other options are being considered in order to make the 30hr proposal work. 

The option of charging parents is being considered by nurseries, however, these charges must be optional a stipulation made by local authorities. The question is how many parents will actually pay it?

How are childcare providers to remain sustainable with very little financial support from Government?. Further support is needed to ensure high-quality childcare remains on offer to those families that need it? If we are not careful both providers and families are going to suffer as there will be limited childcare places. 

For some nurseries who decide to offer the 30hrs free childcare scheme, they will get less funding than what they actually get now, meaning they will operate at a lost straightaway. Where is the incentive for nurseries to offer this scheme?

It is believed Government will be spending £6bn on childcare, let’s hope childcare providers see some of this money!