The early years and childcare sector has weathered the recession pretty well so far, but according to a major economic survey, it faces an uncertain future as many settings are financially vulnerable and there are uncertainties about Government policy and funding.
The Children's Nurseries UK Market Report 2010, published by Laing and Buisson, says while the sector suffered a clear downturn, during the recession, it 'probably fared better than many other services and industries'.
Although there was a sharp drop of 8 per cent in the total number of nursery places last year to 662,835 this March - the first contraction in the sector on record - only half the survey respondents say their business performance declined, and a third reported no change.
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