The Centre for Policy Studies today welcomed the Government's
proposals to improve the cost, choice and availability of
childcare, which mirror many of the suggestions made in a recent report.
As the CPS has highlighted, the Government’s pledge to consult on
cutting ratio regulations is a crucial first step in making sure
the cost of childcare is cut significantly without undermining
safety, by bringing us closer into line with similar countries.
The think tank also praised the Government’s plans to make it
easier to become a childminder and review the role of the Early
Years Foundation Stage in childcare settings, both of which were
highlighted in Elizabeth Dunkley's recent CPS paper 'Solving the
Childcare Challenge'.
Elizabeth Dunkley, Researcher at the Centre for Policy
Studies, said:
‘As households continue to bear the brunt of the worst cost
of living crisis in a generation, today’s announcement is a
welcome step in addressing the scandalous cost of Britain’s
childcare - which has burdened families and stunted economic
growth for years.
‘Cutting excessive levels of red tape around child-staff
ratios - which have been unnecessarily burdensome for years - is
crucial to reducing the financial burden that childcare imposes
on families. Likewise, as we’ve previously highlighted, making it
easier for people to become childminders will allow the
Government to make huge strides towards delivering the urgent
reform that is needed.
‘However, the Government must be firm in the face of the
inevitable vocal opposition. To deliver the lasting change that
the nation desperately requires, it must ensure it brings the
country in line with its European neighbours - many of which
offer higher quality childcare at significantly lower
costs.’
Notes to Editors
- ‘Solving the Childcare Challenge’ can be downloaded
here
