Many families are facing financial strain due to the soaring costs of summer holiday childcare, particularly in Wales, according to a report by the Coram Family and Childcare charity. Kate Shivers-Poole from Treorchy, Rhondda Cynon Taf, highlighted that while childcare greatly benefits her son’s development, the expense of full-time care during holidays makes it economically impractical for working parents like herself. The Welsh government funds 30 hours of childcare weekly for three and four-year-olds over 48 weeks, surpassing England’s 38-week provision. The Welsh government defends its childcare initiatives as crucial for economic growth and reducing inequalities, mentioning additional funding for holiday play schemes like Playworks and the Food and Fun scheme across local authorities. Despite these efforts, the disparity in childcare costs remains a pressing issue affecting many working families.
