CYP Now - Analysis: The childcare bill - Details prove a stumbling block

The Childcare Bill has been described as a radical step forward, and while most professionals have welcomed its concept, many have raised concerns over funding, an 'overemphasis' on working parents' needs, and the education of toddlers. Jo Stephenson reports.

The Childcare Bill, which had its first reading in Parliament last week,is a truly radical step forward, says the Government.

Most professionals working with children would agree. This is the firstpiece of legislation that covers childcare and it underpins theGovernment's 10-year childcare strategy. It is also radical in that itplaces statutory duties on local authorities, not only to ensuresufficient childcare, but to actively improve children's outcomes andwork to reduce the gap between the most disadvantaged and thebest-off.

Delve deeper into the detail of the Bill, however, and children'scampaigners say they have plenty to be concerned about and will belobbying hard as it progresses through Parliament.

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