Welsh Conservatives Unveil New Childcare Offer Before Senedd Election

The Welsh Conservatives have announced an ambitious childcare initiative aimed at supporting families ahead of the upcoming Senedd election. The policy proposes to pay grandparents up to £4,800 annually for caring for their grandchildren. This plan, described as the party’s most “pro-family” approach, also includes significant expansions to free childcare access in Wales.

Key Features of the New Childcare Proposal

• Grandparents can receive £200 per child monthly, capped at two children.
• Eligible working parents can choose between registered childcare providers or family members for care.
• Access to 30 hours of free childcare each week will be extended to children aged nine months to four years.
• Current eligibility for free childcare is limited to children aged three and four.

Party leader Darren Millar MS emphasized the financial burden of childcare on families, stating, “Parents in Wales currently face the highest childcare costs in Britain.” He believes that this initiative will not only alleviate costs but also recognize the crucial role grandparents play in childcare.

Current Childcare Costs in Wales

Recent studies indicate that Welsh parents pay approximately £2,600 more annually for full-time nursery care compared to their counterparts in England. The proposed policy aims to change this reality by making childcare more affordable.

Reactions to the Plan

The Welsh Liberal Democrats, led by Jane Dodds, responded to the announcement, highlighting their ongoing push for universal childcare. Dodds stated, “Universal childcare is one of the smartest investments a government can make.” She urged collaboration with any Conservative members still supportive of this initiative post-election.

Purnima Tanuku CBE, Executive Chair of the National Day Nurseries Association, welcomed the additional investment but stressed the necessity of including childcare professionals in implementation discussions. She noted that investing in early childhood education is crucial for improving life outcomes and enhancing workforce participation.

Timeline and Financial Implications

If the Welsh Conservatives are successful in the election, the new childcare policy is expected to take effect in September 2027. The estimated financial impact of this plan would be £98 million, with funding sourced from increased consequential support linked to the expansion of free childcare in England.