Childcare expansion in England may not meet parents’ expectations, says charity

Survey by Coram found nursery costs and dwindling places will put pressure on government plans

Rishi Sunak’s plans to expand childcare provision in England are at risk of not living up to parents’ expectations as nursery costs surge and available places dwindle, a charity has warned.

The cost of 25 hours a week for a child under two has risen by 7% on 2023, with the most expensive area being inner London where the average cost is £218 a week, the latest annual survey of the Coram Family and Childcare charity found.