Nursery World - Government told to prioritise support for young children as low-income families struggle to 'keep their heads above water'

Mounting debt, poor mental health and expensive and unaffordable childcare is placing children’s futures at risk, according to UNICEF UK.

UNICEF UK's survey highlights the financial struggle faced by low-income families, PHOTO: Adobe Stock

The charity’s annual survey of 2,892 parents of children up to the age of four finds that 87 per cent are worried about their children’s future life chances, with 66 per cent reporting that the cost of living crisis has negatively impacted their family.

A total of 25 per cent have had to borrow money or gone into debt to make ends meet/pay for essentials.

Of those surveyed, 62 per cent said childcare is one of the biggest challenges facing parents.

In light of the findings, UNICEF UK is calling on the Government to commit to a National Baby and Toddler Guarantee.

It also wants the Government to end the two-child limit and remove the benefits cap, as well as guarantee every child a place in a local, affordable and quality early education and care setting.

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