“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
SEN and the Funding Gap: When the Children Who Need the Most Get the Least
Inclusion should be more than a word — it’s a promise.A promise that every child, no matter their background or ability, will have access to the education, care, and support they need to thrive. Yet across the UK, this promise is being broken. The reality is...
Autumn Budget 2025: Why the Childcare Sector Is on Edge
2025 has been one of the most turbulent years the early years sector has seen in a long time — and it’s not over yet. As we look ahead to the Autumn Budget, many in the childcare world are bracing themselves for more announcements that could once again reshape how...
From Postcode to Playtime: Why Where You Live Still Determines Your Child’s Access to Care
Because a child’s opportunities shouldn’t depend on their postcode. Across the UK, thousands of children start each day in early years settings that look and feel completely different — not because of their needs, but because of where they live. One child enjoys a...