The policy for children aged three and four is denying childcare and early education to families “simply because their parents don’t earn enough”, warns the Sutton Trust in its latest report.
The research found that 70 per cent of those eligible for the entitlement are among the top half of earners, while only 13 per cent of families among the bottom third of earners are entitled to the benefit.
This policy “has contributed to a widening of the gap between the poorest children and their peers before school starts”, according to the Trust, which adds that this situation has been exacerbated further by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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
