Childcare Costs in Wales: A Financial Burden Keeping Parents from Work

In Wales, families are facing astronomical childcare costs for children under two, with expenses reported to be over double those in England, according to a new report by Oxfam Cymru. While parents in England can access 15 hours of free childcare per week for kids aged nine months to two years, Welsh parents receive no government assistance for the same age group, severely impacting their financial stability and ability to return to work.

A survey conducted by Coram revealed that a part-time nursery place for an under-two in Wales costs £155 per week, compared to just £70 in England after funded hours are considered. This disparity is making it tough for many families to manage, as highlighted by parents like Katie Bromley, who expressed difficulty in finding work due to rising childcare expenses.

The issue intensifies for parents like Ffion Ryan, who noted the financial struggle during the gap between when maternity pay ends at nine months and when support becomes available at three years old. Parents feel that financial assistance should be in place as soon as maternity leave ends, acknowledging that the current system does not adequately support working mothers during this essential period.

Despite the Welsh government investing over £100 million annually to enhance childcare quality, issues remain. Nursery owner Lisa Owen shared that the funding provided for government schemes does not cover operational costs, forcing providers to raise prices, which compounds the problem for parents of toddlers. Concerns about the sustainability of these childcare services are prominent, with some nurseries at risk of closure due to financial losses.

Looking ahead to the 2026 Senedd elections, childcare costs are expected to be a significant topic. Various political parties in Wales, including Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Liberal Democrats, are advocating for expanded access to free childcare, with proposals to increase support for children starting from nine months old. The government, while focused on supporting disadvantaged families first, is also planning to enhance available assistance for broader communities.

This alarming situation highlights the urgent need for policy change to address the financial burden of childcare in Wales, emphasizing that many families are facing dire choices between working and affording essential childcare services.