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Scottish Paying More For Childcare Than Rest of Europe

According to the latest statistics, Scottish parents are paying one of the highest rates for child care in Europe, with the facilities of care being worse than other areas of the UK.

The damning statistics come following a revelation that the vast majority of councils do not have enough resources to offer the standard amount of free childcare, with only 15% of councils having enough for full-time parents.

This revelation comes despite the stark contrast from Commission for Childcare Reform which states that at least 50 hours of free childcare should be granted to parents in Scotland.

Independent Review

Stephen Dunmore, chief executive of the Family and Childcare Trust has called for an independent review into child care in Scotland, He said: “In spite of positive initiatives implemented by both the Scottish and UK governments, including more hours of free early education in Scotland, the childcare system across Britain needs radical reform.”

The chief executive was critical of the high cost stating that some aspects of childcare cost more than a mortgage on a home. He added: “For many parents on low- and middle-incomes this means choosing between paying high childcare costs, reducing their hours at work or giving up their job altogether"

A Scottish government spokeswoman stated that despite the criticism over the lack of care, and the high cost, the investment in childcare had risen by 45%.

Further Pledge on Childcare

The Scottish Government have pledged to make further provisions available in child care by introducing more child care in general, and expanding the age bracket to three and four-year-olds.

The Scottish Government’s minister for children and young people Fiona MacLeod stated that by expanding childcare to at least 30 hours a week for all children aged four or under it would further save families money and ensure children were brought up with the best care. In a statement she said that such changes “will deliver childcare provision that is equivalent to the length of the school day – giving children the best start in life and enabling parents to back to work without facing the crippling costs of childcare.”

Research earlier this year found that many of the times offered by councils are not appropriate for families, with workers being forced to find their own childcare as a result. This is due to private nurseries failing to work in an effective partnership with local councils.

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If you require any legal advice regarding family law and children, whether it be adoption or child custody, our team of local solicitors can help. Contact us today by using our online contact form or call us today on 0131 516 7282.

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