Lydia Hodges

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.

Jonathan Broadbury, Policy Director at the National Day Nurseries Association, Lydia Hodges from Coram, and Claire Roberts, CEO of Kids Planet, dive into the impact of new childcare funding. They discuss the introduction of 15 funded hours of childcare for parents of children aged 9 months and the anticipated increase to 30 hours. The group addresses challenges in meeting demand, the financial strain on families due to rising nursery fees, and the importance of accessible childcare options. Furthermore, insights into Northern Ireland's new subsidy scheme highlight its potential benefits and concerns.