A shortage of affordable childcare in England is costing the UK economy as much as £27bn per year, researchers suggest.
According to a new report by think-tank The Centre for Progressive Policy, “a lack of affordable, accessible childcare is costing the economy billions in lost earnings and holding back much-needed labour supply”.
It finds that 27 per cent of mothers surveyed as part of the research – the equivalent of around 1.5 million women – said they would like to work more hours if they had access to suitable childcare.
“If these desired hours were realised, it would result in at least £9.4bn in additional earnings per year, producing additional economic output of upwards of £27bn per year,” the report states.
