Released on: 25 March 2015
In response to CBI's Best Foot Forward report, Elizabeth Duff, Senior Policy Adviser at NCT said:
“It’s great news that CBI have backed NCT’s manifesto to extend 15 hours of free childcare for children under 2 years old. The UK economy is losing out on a potential £750 million each year because of low maternal employment so it’s vital employers recognise the value of working parents.
“Our own research has found the majority of parents want to return to work but the cost and lack of access to childcare can be an impossible barrier, meaning new mums and dads are being forced to drop out of the workforce. Those with children under two are in a particularly difficult situation as they do not yet benefit from the statutory 15 hours of free childcare. Extending free childcare places for children under 2 is an essential start to supporting thousands of families in the UK.”