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NEWS RELEASE

29 January 2008

Pre-school Learning Alliance call for a different approach to make affordable childcare a reality

Responding to the Childcare Costs Survey 2008 report, Steve Alexander, Chief Executive of the Pre-school Learning Alliance, said that the findings were disappointing, and called for a different approach to providing affordable childcare.

Steve said that:

‘Affordable childcare was a major promise in the ten-year strategy. It is disappointing to see that, despite very significant investment in the early years, childcare is still not affordable for many parents. This report suggests that we have some of the highest childcare costs in Europe.

The government's free entitlement principles should be applauded. However, the tax credit system is inaccessible and unduly complex, meaning that parents are not taking up this assistance — especially so among parents who may need it the most.

But parental choice and availability of childcare also depend on providers having financial stability. Many providers are facing challenging sustainability issues and these look set to increase with the proposed changes to the Ofsted registration fees, among other concerns.

There is an increasing argument that a much simplified system of subsidy would be more effective and greatly benefit both parents and childcare providers. We urge the government to consider other approaches, including funding the supplier for places, rather than the current system where funding follows the individual. We need to ensure that parents can easily access affordable, sustainable childcare.'

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Anna Roberts
Pre-school Learning Alliance
T: 020 7697 2504
Out of hours press calls: 07956 499621
E: Anna Roberts

Notes for Editors:

  1. The Pre-school Learning Alliance is the largest voluntary sector provider of quality affordable childcare and education in England.
  2. Through direct provision and its membership of 15,000 nurseries, sessional pre-schools and parent and toddler groups, the Alliance supports over 800,000 children and their families in England. The Alliance also develops and runs family learning programmes, offers information and advice, runs acclaimed training and accreditation programmes and campaigns to influence early years policy and practice.
  3. For information about the Pre-school Learning Alliance, visit our website: www.pre-school.org.uk
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