Money Box Money Box Live: School Wraparound Care
May 21, 2025
Lydia Hodges, Head of Coram Family and Childcare, and Laura Suter, Director of Personal Finance at AJ Bell, dive into the financial struggles of working parents managing childcare costs. They discuss the launch of free breakfast clubs in 750 schools across England and how this can save parents up to £450 annually. The conversation also highlights the UK's tax-free childcare scheme, support options for special needs care, and the critical role of community networks in easing the childcare burden.
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Choosing Term-Time Work
- Sophia reduced her working hours to term time due to after-school care costs of £20 daily.
- Despite earning less, she values reduced stress and lower childcare and transport expenses.
Childcare Costs Impact Women Most
- Women disproportionately reduce work hours or leave jobs to manage family childcare needs.
- This impacts their future career prospects and earnings negatively, perpetuating inequality.
Pros and Cons of Free Breakfast Clubs
- Free breakfast clubs aim to ensure children start school well-fed, supporting learning and wellbeing.
- However, schools may be overstretched and not fully equipped to provide this additional service effectively.