Autumn budget and childcare

[Beachwaves127]

Anyone seen anything in the budget on childcare? I haven’t seen anything at all?

I don’t think anything was expected on childcare for this one, it was in the last spring budget.

Ah I see. Thank you. I just wondered if the proposed changes were still going to happen.

I don’t think we’ll know that until later on, and depends who wins the next election. I wouldn’t rely on it coming in.

Yes know what you mean, I am working on the basis that it won’t come in to be fair

He stated that the increased free hours would still be going ahead, with the roll out starting in April as planned.

I'd be surprised if the very first bit (15 free hours for over 2s) didn't go ahead, it would be a very late change given that he's just confirmed it. I wouldn't be surprised if the full amount (30 hours for over 9 months) gets walked back.

I agree with this on paper but in addition there’s the problem that the current funding for over 3s doesn’t actually cover the cost of their place and younger children on full fees help make up the deficit. So even if it goes through for over 2s from the government’s side, finding a nursery that actually offers it might prove impossible, because they’d go bust if they did.

Working on the basis that it won’t come in is wise OP. And you never know we may be pleasantly surprised!

The minimum wage increase will have a negative impact of the cost of childcare as well

Oh yes interesting didn’t think of that. Well the nursery workers do deserve more pay I think. I couldn’t do their job it’s difficult!

The fact that they are underpaid in undeniable.