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Is extending 30 hours childcare to parents on benefits fair?

552 replies

GimmieABreakOr3 · 13/07/2026 17:08

30 free hours of childcare to those in receipt of benefits is not fair.

Currently, the 30-hour childcare scheme requires parents to be in work to qualify. However, the UK Education Secretary has called for this to be extended to parents on benefits.

Many argue that those who are unemployed don’t need childcare. I agree. How is it fair that those of us in work are always propping up those who are not? It’s proper two tier Britain if you ask me when it comes to those in work compared to those who are unemployed and on welfare. I think Labour are ruining this country.

Is extending 30 hours childcare to parents on benefits fair?
OP posts:
Oooeeh · 18/07/2026 08:04

Fluffyowl00 · 17/07/2026 21:16

I think it’s a great idea. Now when your child is 3 you must work at least 30 hours a week minimum wage- but to do that you must pay your childcare before you get the job and 30 days before you get paid. This way it’s much easier for people to find jobs as they already have childcare in place.

This isn’t the case. Lots of benefits cease when you start working and it will plunge people into immediate debt

WhatsAWeekend · 18/07/2026 13:43

Oooeeh · 18/07/2026 08:04

This isn’t the case. Lots of benefits cease when you start working and it will plunge people into immediate debt

Or there could be a borrowing mechanism
similar to those being ‘thought about’ for Burnhams ideas on council tax uplift and the wealth tax on properties

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