The key policy announcement to freeze consumer energy bills for two years will prevent millions of families from having to choose between heating or eating this winter, although charities warn that the most disadvantaged groups will need more help to cope with the cost-of-living crisis.
The support for charities and businesses – a six-month bills freeze – while welcome will do little to allay concerns for organisations facing rises of 600 per cent.
Early years providers are more vulnerable than most to this crisis following a long-term shortage of staff, below-inflation funding increases for government-funded early education and a fall in income over the past two years due to the pandemic. The extent of the challenge it presents to the sector cannot be understated – associations refer to an “existential threat” that could “damage the infrastructure” of early education.
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
