my first dc is approaching a year old. maternity leave is 6 months here, childcare astronomical, rent high. I also unexpectedly became a single mum. I lost pay last week as dc sent home from crèche but still had to pay crèche, obviously. I love my job and work hard but would love to be with dc more, to but need my full time wage as a minimum.
I'm highly qualified with a professional job but trapped - can now only afford student level accommodation for me and my child. or stop paying childcare but forget career. even primary school day is very short and no after school clubs - just expensive after school care.
Is there anywhere where (ideal wishlist!) childcare is good quality and fairly priced, accommodation matches average salary, attitude to having children with you is positive (in restaurants etc), plenty of facilities for children and families, support for working parents (flexible options)? and so on?