From September, working parents in England of all children aged from nine months old have been promised 15 hours a week of state-funded childcare. However, data seen by the Observer reveals early years providers are struggling to attract enough new workers, while many are warning they are continuing to lose staff.
Some fear the childcare expansion will be undeliverable and providers will be unable to fulfil the demand from parents seeking a place.
We would like to hear from anyone who has been affected by the rollout of the expansion – parents, early years practitioners, childminders and those working for a local authority. What has your experience been like? Do you have any concerns?