“The free hours childcare scheme has been crucial in helping parents afford childcare.
Responding to the Coram Family and Childcare’s annual survey, Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children, Young People and Families Committee, said:
“The free hours childcare scheme has been crucial in helping parents afford childcare.
“However, councils are concerned some parents are not eligible for the entitlements which can make childcare unaffordable for disadvantaged families. There should be a review of who is entitled to free hours, ensuring those on lower incomes do not miss out.
“The entitlements should also be extended to parents and carers who are studying and/or in training, and foster carers and kinship carers, regardless of work or training status.
“It’s vital the Government addresses these concerns as part of its review of early education and childcare entitlements funding.”
Ends