We are concerned that the government’s approach to childcare policy is at risk of undermining its social mobility ambitions. Its flagship 30-hours scheme represents a unique opportunity to support working families in accessing quality, affordable childcare. However, survey findings from the Pre-school Learning Alliance suggest that to remain financially viable, a significant proportion of early-years providers have had to introduce or increase additional charges – and, in some cases, prioritise places for those families able to pay for extras. This means that working families on the lowest incomes are at risk of missing out.
The eligibility criteria for both this scheme and the tax-free childcare offer also seem wholly at odds with the government’s social mobility agenda, with parents earning less than the equivalent of 16 hours a week at minimum or living wage unable to benefit, while couples who together earn just under £200,000 in total remain eligible.
The government must provide greater clarity on how it intends to maintain the provision of children’s centres. Sustained funding cuts have forced local councils to shrink their provision to the extent that many remaining centres now offer little more than a skeleton service. It is unacceptable that these critical services have fallen off the government’s list of priorities. We believe that we share the same fundamental goal: to ensure that families receive the support they need to live happy, secure lives. If the government truly wants to achieve this goal, it must ensure that its rhetoric on social mobility is matched by action.
Neil Leitch Chief executive, Pre-school Learning Alliance
Kathy Evans Chief executive, Children England
Alison Garnham Chief executive, Child Poverty Action Group
Rosie Ferguson Chief executive, Gingerbread
Dr Lee Elliot Major Chief executive, Sutton Trust
David Holmes Chief executive, Family Action
Imran Hussain Director of policy, Action for Children
Anna Feuchtwang Chief executive, National Children’s Bureau
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