Mumsnet research reveals the impact of childcare support for parents

Starting on 1 April, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds will be entitled to 15 hours a week of government-funded childcare over 38 weeks of the year, which will extend down to children 9-months-old from September. By September 2025, eligible parents will be entitled to 30 hours of government-funded childcare per week over 38 weeks of the year, from when their child turns 9 months up until their child starts school.

The survey of over 1,000 parents found that:

• 53% of parents who know they’re eligible for expanded provision said it will enable them or their partner to stay in the workforce, extend their working hours or re-enter the workforce.

• 48% said the expanded provision will have a positive impact on their career progression, and 46% agreed it will enable them to work the hours they want.  

Nearly a third (30%) of the parents surveyed who are currently working part time say expanded childcare support will enable them to increase their working hours, and nearly two thirds of parents (61%) agree it will make family life less stressful.

The survey also indicated a high level of awareness of the government’s new offer amongst parents, with most eligible working families planning to use the expanded provision. 80% of parents are aware of the new 15 hours offer that will begin from April for eligible working parents with two-year-olds, with three quarters (75%) aware of the further expansion of the 15 hours to 9-23 month old children from September 2024. 79% of parents with a child aged two are planning to use the new 15 hours childcare that will be introduced from April.  

Mumsnet Founder and CEO, Justine Roberts, said:

“As this new research shows, by closing the gap in support between the end of maternity leave and a child's third birthday, the government will enable many women who would otherwise have been forced out of the workforce to choose to stay in work, benefitting not just them and their families but also the wider economy”.

Children’s Minister David Johnston said:

 “We know childcare costs can often be a barrier to work for parents, so I am very pleased to see this data confirms our transformational childcare offer will make it much easier for parents to balance their career with childcare.

“I urge parents to consider their childcare options now and check their eligibility for the new entitlements on childcarechoices.gov.uk.”