More than two thirds of London parents believe their career has suffered because of a lack of after-school childcare, new research reveals.
A poll by childcare provider Koru Kids found wraparound care in London is inconsistent. A quarter of parents in London said after-school care at their child’s school either does not exist or is full. Two thirds (67 per cent) of London parents said they would be able to work more hours if wraparound care was available, while more than one in five said they have sacrificed pay for a more flexible job.
The problem is worst for parents of children with special educational needs or disabilities, the poll found, with 20 per cent of those in London saying they were unable to use their school’s provision and 14 per cent saying their school did not provide adequate care for their child’s needs.
The Government has announced plans to expand wraparound care for primary school children in England by increasing the number of places available to working families. All parents who need it should have access to the care by September 2026.
But Rachel Carrell, founder of Koru Kids, said the system is not flexible enough and does not help parents who work shifts or with children with special educational needs.
She said: “It’s never been more obvious that parents are crying out for more and better childcare options, yet sadly, the Government’s plans aren’t going to provide anything near what’s needed. The focus has been on finding the cheapest solution.”
