Laura Sharman 08 February 2017

Free childcare could put quality at risk warn councils

Councils have warned that the extension of free childcare could put quality and availability of services at risk, a new survey has revealed.

Research by the Family and Childcare Trust found the government's policy of offering 30 hours of free childcare to 3-4 year olds is likely to reduce quality of care and make it harder to provide care for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Only a third of local authorities surveyed said they had enough childcare available for 3-4 year olds using the 30 hour offer, while 44% said the extension would reduce the financial sustainability of some childcare providers.

Ellen Broomé, deputy chief executive of the Family and Childcare Trust said: 'We know that only high quality childcare helps boost poorer children’s learning. And while working parents are pleased to receive more hours of free childcare, they are not willing to cut corners on childcare quality.

'As this policy rolls out, the Government must make sure that all families are able to access the high quality, affordable childcare that they need.'

However, the survey did show that more than half of local authorities thought the extra free childcare would help improve collaboration between settings.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner