Select a region
More than two thirds of parents think the cost of childcare on the island is "unjustifiably expensive" according to the first survey on the cost of childcare by Jersey Community Relations Trust.
The new survey shows that the annual cost for day nursery varies between £3,112 and £12,578 according to the child's age, while pre-school costs between £3,038 and £10,906 and childminders between £3,990 and £13,300.
It follows a previous study which concluded the cost and inflexibility of the childcare provision in Jersey was a major issue for families.
The new research shows that the average cost of childcare has risen over the past five years, increasing by an average of £1,038 a year for full-time care.
A third of the respondents indicated they spend 21% to 40% of their household income on childcare, with 49% using private childcare services. Less than 10% said they used a States nursery. Half of the respondents said they also rely on extended family and friends to help caring for their child whilst they are at work.
Pictured: Cost is the decisive factor when it comes to choosing a childcare option.
71% of respondents indicated that they receive no financial support towards the cost of childcare with only 19% of respondents claiming Childcare Tax Relief (CCTR). It is noted in the report that "...the efforts of the States of Jersey should be broadened and communicated to stakeholders, inclusive of the information on the support provided. There is a concern that childcare costs are being considered in isolation ignoring the cost increases in real terms as other benefits / expenses are removed."
The report also recommends appointing a Children's commissioner, which was also mentioned in the recent Independent Care Inquiry report. It was revealed earlier this week that £1.4m had been set aside for the commissioner, who will soon be recruited.
In the report, which was produced by BDO Greenlight, the JCRT also says that free childcare may be "...a long-term aspiration" but could be "...a gradual process whereby subsidised childcare is given to parents of the most vulnerable children, from birth to school age for the full calendar year."
Helen Ruelle, Chair of the JCRT, said: “This new report is important in establishing some excellent factual information on the cost of childcare. It has been a comprehensive fact-finding study to try to understand public feeling towards the cost of childcare. We very much hope that the report will form the basis of further research and progress in this key area and the report's recommendations will be carefully considered.”
Deputy Louise Doublet, trustee of the JCRT, said. “The States of Jersey need to take a long-term view on what we, as an island, want for our children. We are building the adults of the future, who will be key contributors to our society. The evidence in this report points to the need for a family-centred plan to be put in place as soon as possible.”
Although the report focuses on the cost of childcare, the JCRT want to emphasise that children remain the primary focus. This is why the report is titled ‘The Child as the Centre of Policy’."
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.