The Childcare Act 2006 places a duty on local authorities to ensure working parents, and those undertaking training and education with a view to returning to work, can access childcare.
But the figures show that only 20 per cent of local authorities in England are providing sufficient childcare for children aged up to two.
Fifty-three per cent of authorities in England are delivering enough early years provision for three- and four-year-olds, but just 14 per cent – one in seven – are meeting requirements for disabled children.
In Wales, the results are slightly better for two-year-olds, with 25 per cent of councils meeting their target. But only 38 per cent of Welsh authorities were providing adequate care for three- and four-year-olds.
The Daycare Trust merged at the start of this year with the Family Parenting Institute. Its chief executive Anand Shukla described the results as a “national scandal”.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
