Warning of a Looming "Funding Cliff Edge" in Out-of-School Childcare
Out-of-school childcare providers are warning of a looming "funding cliff edge" due to rising costs and lack of a coordinated school-aged childcare strategy.
A new white paper launched by the School-Aged Childcare Association (SACA) and Junior Adventures Group UK (JAG UK) in Parliament highlights the issue, stating that thousands of childcare places could be lost when funding through the National Wraparound Childcare Programme ends in 2026.
Without Government action, this! could push more parents, especially mothers, out of the workforce.
The paper acknowledges the Government's universal breakfast club initiative and continuation of the Holiday Activity Fund as positive steps, but emphasizes the need for a more coordinated approach to address the looming "funding cliff edge".
Author's summary: Childcare providers warn of a looming funding crisis.
- Childcare costs impact parents' ability to work
- Rising provider costs threaten childcare places
- Government action is needed to prevent disruption to families and providers