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Stephen has welcomed action by the Government to address hidden childcare fees and ensure families receive the full benefit of expanded funded childcare hours.
Many parents have faced rising childcare costs and unclear additional charges. The new measures aim to make the system fairer, more transparent and easier for families to navigate.
The Education Secretary has written to the independent Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), asking it to investigate practices such as non-refundable deposits, compulsory add-ons and restrictions linked to accessing funded childcare hours.
Parents have reported being charged extra for essential items such as nappies and suncream, or being required to pay for additional hours to access funded support. These costs can reduce the intended benefit of childcare support and place further pressure on household budgets.
Alongside these measures, a new free online cost of living tool has been introduced to help families identify local childcare options, understand the support available to them, and plan their finances more effectively. These steps form part of a broader effort to improve affordability for families and to support children’s early development. This includes expanded childcare provision, breakfast clubs in schools, and measures aimed at reducing school-related costs.
Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “Families in East Ham need a childcare system that is clear, fair and affordable.
“These steps are intended to ensure parents can access the support available to them without unexpected costs, while improving transparency and confidence in the system.”