“Free” childcare
Isn’t Free
Its Knowingly Underfunded
The Problem
Chronic Underfunding
Early years settings are being asked to do more with less.
Rising costs, limited government funding, and increasing demand mean many providers are struggling to stay sustainable while still delivering the quality care children deserve.
Confused Parents
Parents are overwhelmed by changing guidance, funding rules, and long waiting lists.
Many don’t know what support their child is entitled to, how to access it, or where to turn when concerns about development or wellbeing arise.
Struggling Nurseries and Staff
Nurseries and early years staff are under immense pressure.
Recruitment challenges, staff burnout, and financial strain are making it harder to provide consistent, high-quality support for children and families.
The Untold Story
Fairy Tales of
“Free” Childcare
These fairy tales are inspired by real-world challenges in childcare —blending humour, heart, and advocacy to bring important issues to life.
The Princess and The Peanuts
The Three Little Nurseries
The Empty Slippers
The Princess and The Peanuts
The Little Red Hen and the Nursery Crisis
Empty Slippers: The Disappearing Workforce
Snow White
The Three Little Nurseries
The Magic Funding Pot
The Elves and Mr DofE The Shoemaker
It’s More Than Hours.
It’s About Their Future.
Read The Latest
Our Blog
What “Free Childcare” Really Means: Why Care Costs What It Costs
When people hear the phrase “free childcare”, it sounds like a simple solution for families struggling with rising costs.But behind the headline is a more complex reality, one that many parents, policymakers and the public don’t always see.One way to understand it is...
Why humans take so long to grow up – and why that matters
If you’ve ever watched a foal stand within an hour of birth or a puppy tumble confidently about within weeks, it’s hard not to wonder: why do humans take so long to grow up? The short answer is evolution. The longer answer is far more interesting. Humans are born...
A provider’s response to the Mother & Baby article.
This article was sent to FCUKTUS by an nursery owner after reading the Mother and baby Article published on 10 February. The author wishes to remain anonymous. The recent article in Mother and Baby by Hannah Carroll about nursery...