This Childcare Survey by Coram Family and Childcare looks at childcare costs and availability in Great Britain. The report also finds continued gaps in availability of childcare places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The report reveals significant shifts in childcare costs and availability across Great Britain, particularly following the introduction of new funded hours in England. The new funded hours in England have led to a substantial decrease in childcare costs for children under two. Specifically, a part-time nursery place now averages £70.51 per week, a 56% reduction from 2024. Furthermore, full-time nursery places for under-twos have also seen a decrease, now averaging £238.95 per week, down 22% from 2024.
However, Scotland and Wales have not experienced the same cost reductions. In Scotland, part-time nursery places for under-twos have risen to an average of £122.38 per week, a 7% increase, and in Wales, the average cost is £155.04 per week, a 10% increase. Additionally, childcare costs for 3-4 year olds across Great Britain have risen by nearly 5%.
The survey also highlights that families ineligible for the new funded hours in England, such as those not in work or earning below the threshold, face significantly higher costs. These families pay an average of £105 more per week for a part-time nursery place for under-twos and £100 more for two year olds, raising concerns about equitable access to early education.
The survey indicates positive initial results for the expansion of funded hours in England, with high levels of sufficiency reported. 79% of responding English local authorities report sufficient childcare for at least 75% of eligible children, and 80% report sufficient childcare for at least 75% of disadvantaged two year olds.