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Benefit families' free childcare hours risk nursery closures

7/13/2026

49 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson proposes extending 30 free childcare hours to families on benefits.
A former nanny and nursery worker who taught two-to-three-year-olds argues the plan lacks a sufficient workforce.
She says the free-hour funding is set below cost, forcing many nurseries to operate at a loss.
Nursery closures are rising, creating childcare deserts that force parents to apply the moment any place opens.

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Story summary

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson proposes extending 30 free childcare hours to families on benefits.
A former nanny and nursery worker who taught two-to-three-year-olds argues the plan lacks a sufficient workforce.
She says the free-hour funding is set below cost, forcing many nurseries to operate at a loss.
Nursery closures are rising, creating childcare deserts that force parents to apply the moment any place opens.