Parents in Lincolnshire are increasingly struggling to find childcare due to a dwindling supply of childminders. One such parent, Keira Beaumont from Barton in North Lincolnshire, faced rejection from 11 different nurseries and childcare providers before finally securing a two-day a week spot at a local nursery. This allowed her to return to work, but her struggles highlight a growing issue. ‘You simply cannot return to work full time without secure childcare,’ Beaumont pointed out.
There’s clear evidence that this isn’t an isolated problem. Over the past ten years, the number of childminders across England has almost halved, according to figures from Ofsted. The statistic projects a decline from nearly 48,000 childminders in 2015 to a predicted 25,000 by 2025. As a result, many parents are finding it difficult to secure childcare services, particularly in Lincolnshire where providers are often fully booked in advance.
In response to these nationwide difficulties, the government has pledged a £9.5bn investment to support the childcare sector. However, despite this, many families in Lincolnshire continue to fight significant obstacles in finding the care they desperately need.
This news has been based on original reporting from www.bbc.com and adapted by The Lincoln Post.
