Welsh Families Cross Border Due to Childcare Divide
The disparity in childcare support between England and Wales has compelled many families to reevaluate their living situations. In a move driven by financial necessity, Robin Lloyd, a resident of Chepstow in Wales, relocated to Gloucestershire, England. This decision was fueled by the availability of affordable childcare options across the border.
Childcare Discrepancy Between England and Wales
In England, parents can access 30 hours of free childcare per week for children aged nine months to four years. This support contrasts sharply with Wales, where the Flying Start programme currently provides only 12.5 hours of free childcare per week for two- to three-year-olds. As of the end of the 2024-25 financial year, this scheme had reached 15,901 children, covering approximately 52% of eligible two-year-olds.
Robin Lloyd’s Relocation
Robin Lloyd, a 35-year-old nurse, faced substantial childcare costs. She discovered that her expenses for childcare in Wales would nearly double her mortgage. In pursuit of financial sustainability, she and her husband decided to move to England, incurring relocation costs of £15,000. This decision was about more than just affordability; it was integral to their family planning.
“I’m really sad about it. I’ve left my home. But ultimately, if it means I can have the family, it’s worth it,” said Lloyd. Her situation reflects a broader trend, with families making tough choices amid varying childcare policies across the two regions.
Challenges in Wales
Welsh parents face serious challenges, particularly regarding availability and funding for childcare. Presently, there is no financial support for children under two years old in Wales. The Welsh government’s initiatives, such as Flying Start, aim to enhance the childcare situation, but many parents feel they are left out of vital support options.
- Flying Start Programme: 12.5 hours weekly for ages 2-3
- 52% of two-year-olds covered by end of 2024-25
- Targeting additional £25 million in funding for more coverage by 2025-26
However, some parents, like Grace from Merthyr Tydfil, have expressed the need for more universal access to childcare. Grace emphasized how essential it is to make these benefits available to all families, regardless of their employment status.
Political Responses
The differences in childcare policy have sparked political discussions in Wales. In October 2025, Monmouthshire Conservative councillors unanimously supported a motion urging the Welsh Government to provide 30 hours of free childcare from nine months old, similar to England’s availability. Councillor Richard John reiterated the economic importance of improving childcare provisions.
Government Initiatives
The Welsh government defends its childcare programs as both sustainable and effective. Officials highlighted that the Childcare Offer for Wales also includes up to 30 hours per week for three- and four-year-olds. Unlike in England, this offer is accessible to parents who are in training or education, extending across more weeks of the year.
Political parties in Wales are preparing for the upcoming Senedd elections, proposing distinct childcare solutions. Plaid Cymru has committed to 20 hours of free childcare for children aged nine months to four years by 2031. Meanwhile, the Welsh Conservatives aim to align their policies with those of England.
As the discussion continues, families like Robin Lloyd’s navigate the tension between policy and personal need. Their experiences highlight the profound impact that childcare support—or the lack thereof—has on family planning and financial stability.
