CYP Now - Analysis: Will parent power shape childcare?

A report from the think-tank Policy Exchange has called for sweeping changes to the way childcare is funded, arguing money should be given direct to parents. As Ben Cook finds out, the early years sector is supportive of more choice for parents.

The funding of childcare has long been a subject of controversy within the sector, with some arguing cash should go straight to nurseries and pre-schools.

But a new report from Conservative think-tank Policy Exchange has gone one step further, saying the money available from government to fund childcare should be given to parents to spend on the type of care they prefer (CYP Now, 16-22 April).

Little Britons: Financing Childcare Choice proposes scrapping the childcare element of the working tax credit, the childcare voucher scheme and the one-off Sure Start maternity grant, and replacing these with a parental care allowance - a weekly sum of £50 to £60 per child.

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