Brooke: Big fall in number of childminders will leave parents struggling

11.28.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 9th Jun 2009

The number of registered childminders has fallen significantly since 2007, the Liberal Democrats have revealed.

The figures, given in a Parliamentary answer, show that the number of carers looking after under-8s has declined by nearly 10,000 over six years.

The Liberal Democrat Children and Families Spokesperson, said: "The Government's bureaucratic approach to pre-school care is causing childminders to turn away from the profession."

"As we approach the summer holidays, it is going to be a real struggle for hard-pressed parents to find good, affordable childcare."

Annette Brooke went on to say; "Childcare costs have spiraled over recent years and there is a risk that the drop in the number of childminders is going to drive up costs even further. We already have the farcical situation where some parents find they are better off giving up work rather than forking out for expensive childcare."

"Ministers must rethink the current system and find the right balance between ensuring that children are cared for in a suitable environment, without placing unreasonable demands on childminders."

Annette concluded; "The Government must provide more support to families by expanding free pre-school childcare to 20 hours a week for all children from 18 months."

(1) Figures have been rounded to the nearest 100. (2) Data Source: Ofsted.