In an open letter to the Department for Education signed by 3,741 early years professionals representing 6,064 settings, the campaign group Early Years Voice warns that already 400 nurseries have closed over the last two years due to “huge funding gaps” as more children become eligible for 30 funded hours a week.
The funding system is also blighted by “overly complicated rules” and a lack of clarity from ministers that leaves families unsure which part of their child’s place is free, the group says.
Campaigners also cite figures released last year by Coram Family and Childcare, showing that nine in 10 councils believe they will not have the capacity locally for a further expansion to the 30 hours scheme this September.
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