Coram survey: Over half of councils unaware of holiday childcare sufficiency

Coram Family and Childcare’s 21st annual Holiday Childcare Survey has revealed concerning gaps in local authority knowledge regarding childcare provision. The research indicates that the majority of local authorities across Great Britain do not have a clear picture of how much holiday childcare exists within their boundaries, despite statutory obligations to ensure sufficiency. This lack of awareness comes at a time when families are facing increased financial pressure, with childcare costs having risen significantly over the past year. The findings suggest that many councils may struggle to identify and address gaps in provision, potentially leaving working parents without adequate support during school holidays. Without accurate data on existing childcare places, local authorities cannot effectively plan for future need or ensure that provision meets the diverse requirements of their communities, including support for disabled children and those receiving free school meals. The survey results underscore the urgent need for improved data collection and strategic planning around holiday childcare. As the cost of living crisis continues to affect families, accessible and affordable childcare remains essential for enabling parents to maintain employment and for supporting children’s social and educational development during holiday periods.