A survey of NDNA members on business performance in the sector found that 65 per cent of nurseries have seen occupancy decreasing in the six months to November.
Eighty-four per cent have had more part-time children in their nurseries, and 56 per cent said there had been an increase in parents using only the free entitlement.
Just under two-thirds of nurseries put their fees up in 2011, with providers passing their own increased costs in wages, food and utilities on to parents.
Nurseries were also asked about whether they had noticed any payment trends in the past year. A third reported that parents had been late with payments. One in five said they had noticed that more childcare vouchers were being used.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
