The National Childminding Association (NCMA), whose members include almost 48,000 registered childminders, has commented on the Chancellor's Budget Speech.
Liz Bayram, Chief Executive at NCMA, said:
'NCMA welcomes the increase in Child Tax Credits and the threshold for Working Tax Credit, as well as the increase in Child Benefit. NCMA research suggests that childminders charge an average of between £2.50 and £4.00 per hour to look after a child, yet even these modest childcare costs can present difficulties for unemployed parents relying on benefits.
She said that The NCMA particularly welcome the further encouragement of extended school-times and the decision to extend free childcare places for up to 50,000 workless parents to undertake training. She believes that access to quality flexible childcare will definitely enable more parents to move back into work or training.
'The extension of the childcare element of Working Tax Credit will make this more affordable for many more low-income parents," she said. "However, NCMA would urge the Government to extend this provision to include parents actively seeking work. The lack of affordable childcare can present real difficulties to parents who need to devote time to identifying job opportunities, applying and attending interviews.'
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