Iain McMath: What parents need to consider when selecting and paying for childcare

-

Many new parents find themselves overwhelmed when trying to decide what types of childcare are most suitable for them and their child. The costs associated with childcare provision are also a concern – especially in the current economic climate, where household budgets are under pressure. However, help is out there for hardworking Mums and Dads – for instance, many parents are unaware that they can help pay for childcare with a childcare voucher scheme from their employer.

This is designed to help working parents pay for Ofsted (or equivalent)registered childcare, saving up to £933 a year, depending on your earnings. If two parents take the full amount available, the family could save up to £1,866 a year in childcare costs. As such, this is a valuable scheme, with research from Insitas showing that over 90% of parents consider childcare vouchers to be financially helpful when covering the cost of childcare.

There is often a misconception that childcare vouchers are only available for nursery fees for younger children. In fact childcare vouchers can also be used for all registered childminder fees, afterschool clubs, school holiday camps, ches, breakfast clubs, nannies, and even the care element of boarding school fees up to the age of 15 or 16 if the child is disabled.

Childcare is a hugely important and emotive subject for parents and one that it often complicated by cost. The latest research by the DayCare Trust shows that the cost of childcare is increasing above the rate of inflation and in some areas, the cost of a full time nursery place can be nearly £22, 000 a year. Childcare vouchers go some way to reduce the financial pressure on working families along with government subsidised childcare places and tax credits for those with lower earnings

HRreview Logo

Get our essential weekday HR news and updates.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Keep up with the latest in HR...
This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is hidden when viewing the form
Optin_date
This field is hidden when viewing the form

 

Iain McMath at Managing

Iain McMath, Managing Director, Sodexo Motivation Solutions

Iain joined Sodexo Motivation Solutions in August 2002 bringing eleven years commercial and marketing experience with him.

As Managing Director, Iain is responsible for the overall strategic direction of Sodexo Motivation Solutions, covering Employee Benefits, Incentive & Recognition and Public Benefits. He also oversees UK investment and development, and ensures the delivery of a high quality service.

Since taking up the position, Iain has played an important role in securing major contracts with high profile organisations such as the Home Office, and the launch of the SayCare program. Iain also works with a number of NGO’s in guiding strategy and influencing policy.

Before joining Sodexo Motivation Solutions, Iain worked as a senior executive for a number of companies involved in the aerospace and automotive industries.

In his spare time Iain enjoys theatre, literature, as well as tennis and ski

Latest news

‘Job centre in your pocket’ plan raises questions over role of AI in employment support

The government's AI-powered employment assistant has sparked debate about how technology should support jobseekers while maintaining trust.

Employers urged to spot gambling harms during World Cup

Employers are being urged to watch for gambling-related harm at work as the 2026 World Cup brings weeks of daytime matches and betting activity.

Habits for health: small changes that lead to bigger gains

From walking meetings to better sleep routines, simple habits can improve health, wellbeing and performance across the workplace.

Jeanette Wheeler: The business case for purpose-led leadership

Public scrutiny on businesses and societal expectations are putting pressure on leaders to demonstrate that purpose runs deeper than profit.
- Advertisement -

Britain’s biggest retailers cut 18,000 jobs as employment costs rise

Rising wage bills and tax costs are prompting retailers to rethink hiring as they seek savings across their operations.

Georges Elhedery on AI and job losses

“We all know generative AI will destroy certain jobs and will create new jobs.”

Must read

In the future, Millennials will inherit the earth. And the Finance department. Is your business ready?

A new initiative by ACCA has highlighted 10 key drivers that are set to force change upon business processes, people and services.

Katy Meves and Nick Jupp: What can all employers learn from Manchester United dismissing Louis Van Gaal?

Following his dismissal by Manchester United Football Club it has been reported that Louis Van Gaal is likely to receive compensation between £4.5 and £5 million. Any senior, well paid executive is likely to have a significant claim for compensation if they are dismissed in breach of contract. With stakes high, employers need to make sure they are properly prepared for a parting of the ways by drafting adequate protections in their employment contracts.
- Advertisement -

You might also likeRELATED
Recommended to you