Warning of Looming Funding Cliff Edge in Out-of-School Childcare
Out-of-school childcare providers are warning of a looming 'funding cliff edge' next year due to rising provider costs and lack of a coordinated school-aged childcare strategy.
A new white paper launched by the School-Aged Childcare Association (SACA) and Junior Adventures Group UK (JAG UK) highlights the impact of childcare costs on parents' ability to work, with thousands of childcare places at risk of disappearing when funding through the National Wraparound Childcare Programme ends in 2026.
The funding cliff edge threatens disruption for families and providers across the UK.
- The Government's universal breakfast club initiative and continuation of the Holiday Activity Fund are seen as positive steps.
- However, a more coordinated approach is needed to address the looming funding crisis.
Autor's summary: Childcare providers warn of funding crisis.