Many parents know the challenges of finding – and affording – childcare in the capital.  But what is childcare provision in London really like?  Is childcare readily available and what are the main issues of concern? 

It is estimated that the London childcare market is worth £1 billion and parents face fees that are on average 25 – 35 per cent higher than the rest of the country^[1]. 

Next week, the London Assembly Health and Public Services Committee will begin^[2] examining childcare in the capital and is interested in hearing from the public about the childcare issues they are facing^[3] .    

The Committee has invited a number of experts to a public meeting next Wednesday to discuss:

• The childcare market across London and whether there are any significant inequalities:
• How welfare reform will affect the affordability of childcare;
• Changes affecting Sure Start Children's Centres and their impact on London families;
• Providers' views on childcare access and availability

Victoria Borwick AM, Chair of the Health and Public Services Committee, said:

“The availability of good, reliable, affordable childcare is one of the most important factors for parents when considering work.  We’ve all heard stories about difficulties with finding childcare and exorbitant costs – but we want to find out exactly what the situation is like in the capital and how it could be improved.”

Next week’s meeting will take place on Wednesday, 13 July from 2.30pm in Committee Room 5 at City Hall (The Queen’s Walk, London SE1). Media and members of the public are invited to attend.  The meeting can also be viewed via webcast.  A second meeting will be held on 2 November 2011, where a more in-depth discussion on childcare will take place.

To share your views please email HealthandPublicServices@london.gov.uk

Notes for Editors:

1. The London Childcare Market, February 2011- London Development Agency
2. The Committee will scope up the terms of reference for the investigation after the meeting on 13 July and launch a call for evidence. 
3. Read more about the investigation and how to contribute your experiences
4. The Chair of the Health and Public Services Committee, Victoria Borwick AM, is available for interview.  See contact details below.
5. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.

For media enquiries, please contact Lisa Moore / Julie Wheldon on 020 7983 4228/4283.  For out of hours media enquiries, call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the London Assembly duty press officer.  Non-media enquiries should be directed to the Public Liaison Unit on 020 7983 4100.