Nursery World - Editor's view (39)

One result of our society moving to a more service-based economy is that demand for childcare outside the traditional working day grows. A new report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has found that this demand is not being met, however (see News, page 9). This is not really surprising, as many childcare providers already work long hours for low pay and are reluctant to do more. Many also have family responsibilities themselves and need to work hours that fit in with these, not hours that make their domestic arrangements more difficult.

This is not really surprising, as many childcare providers already work long hours for low pay and are reluctant to do more. Many also have family responsibilities themselves and need to work hours that fit in with these, not hours that make their domestic arrangements more difficult.

The report suggests that new types of childcare services could be developed, employing people who do not have childcare responsibilities of their own, and this could fill some of the gap.

However, wider issues are at stake, such as whether an increase in 'out-of-hours' care is desirable for the children concerned. Do we risk children being at school all day and then in childcare settings in the evenings and at weekends - and even overnight? It is interesting to note that a predicted rise in overnight services after regulations were altered does not seem to have occurred. The economic argument must not take precedence over children's rights and needs.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included