The Education Secretary has announced a £8 billion package of childcare support to alleviate the difficult choice that many parents face between having children or pursuing a career. Gillian Keegan has promised £100 million to local councils to increase nursery places in preparation for the expansion of free childcare.
Online tool to help parents access support
In addition to the funding, the Education Secretary is launching an online tool that will help parents navigate the various support options available to them. Last year's Budget outlined plans to offer 30 hours per week of free care for children aged nine months to three years by September 2025.
Ending the career vs. family dilemma
In an exclusive interview with the Sun, Gillian Keegan emphasized that no parent should have to choose between having a career or a family. She expressed the importance of ensuring that women do not have to sacrifice their careers or forgo opportunities due to childcare responsibilities.
Addressing concerns about childcare capacity
Despite concerns about the availability of childminders to meet the increased demand, the Education Secretary brushed off these worries, stating that the current rollout plan is already progressing at a fast pace. Under the new package, two-year-olds will receive 15 hours of free childcare starting from April 2024, with the program extending to nine-month-olds by the following September.
Additional funding for primary school children
As part of the package, local councils will also receive £289 million in funding to provide wraparound care for primary school children from 8am to 6pm. However, Labour's Helen Hayes has raised concerns about the lack of specific details regarding the funding, including the number of additional places it will provide and how the new childcare will be staffed.
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