Closed petition Increase free childcare for working parents with children under school age

Closed on 11 January 2023

To make childcare more affordable for working parents with children under school age. 15 hours free childcare should be made accessible to all working parents for a child aged between 39 weeks to 3 years, before a working parent is eligible to claim for 30 hours free childcare once a child turns 3

With the rise in cost of living from inflation, increased household bills, the Bank of England interest rate and subsequently increased mortgage rates, childcare has become financially inaccessible for working parents. Statutory maternity pay is paid up to 39 weeks, and thereafter only Tax-Free childcare applies (a maximum of £2,000 per year), for working parents, up to when a child turns 3 years. A local nursery costs £1,724 per month for full-time childcare, equating to £20,688 annually.