Briefing: Childcare in Wales

Ahead of a Senedd debate on childcare and the Welsh Government’s budget the Expert Advisory Group on Childcare have prepared a briefing for Senedd Members

Accessing good quality, affordable childcare is a challenge for many families in Wales. Among the main barriers facing families are:

• Childcare costs are often not affordable
• It can be difficult to find childcare that meets the needs of the child/ family
• Parents with disabled children or children with additional learning needs face particular challenges when it comes to finding appropriate childcare with a lack of appropriate provision across Wales.
• Accessing support with childcare is complex, with some parents excluded from accessing some schemes.

These barriers lead to parents being locked out of work, leaving families unable to leave the poverty they experience. Children also miss out on the educational and the developmental benefits of childcare. 

The Expert Advisory Group on Childcare have identified three actions regarding early years and childcare that should be a priority for the Welsh Government over the coming months. These actions will enable the Welsh Government to more effectively support thousands of children, deliver on its existing pledges, and setting a positive direction of travel for broader reform into the medium term. These actions are:

1. The Welsh Government should commit to Phase 3 of its phased expansion of Early Years Provision from April 2025
2. The Welsh Government should increase its expenditure on childcare and make more data available as to how much funding it commits to childcare policy
3. The Welsh Government should recognise the centrality of childcare to addressing child poverty.

Pages: 5

Format: PDF

Language: English

Cost: Free

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