This paper looks at the issues around childcare for under-fives in the capital, exploring the costs to parents, providers, and local and central government; the barriers in creating and accessing places; and potential solutions involving a range of partners and stakeholders. We hope the childcare system in London will receive renewed attention after the 2016 mayoral election, and that the new Mayor will prioritise working with partners across all sectors to drive childcare expansion and innovation in the capital. The current cost of childcare in the capital is high, but the costs of not expanding and improving provision, for children, families, and London as a city, are much higher.

Download Invest in Childcare, Invest in London.