The Childcare Costs Survey 2010, from national childcare charity Daycare Trust, is calling for an election commitment from all parties to make greater investment in childcare, as the soaring cost of childcare across the UK is revealed. 

The survey, which is compiled annually from figures submitted by Family Information Services in England, Scotland and Wales, examines by region the cost of childminders, nurseries and after-school club provision based on 25 hours’ use a week (or 15 hours for after-school clubs). This year’s findings showed that nursery costs have continued to rise significantly throughout Great Britain. Childminder costs have also increased across Britain in the past 12 months. Reversing the trend from the previous year, out-of-school club costs swelled in England, but decreased in Scotland and Wales.

This upward trend is sure to be of concern to relocating families, particularly those in which both parents are working.