Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Fourth Report - Universal Credit and childcare costs
Work and Pensions Committee
HC 127
Published 20 December 2022
Recommendations
1
Deferred
Para 19
The Department is currently exceeding its expected proportion of claimants in receipt of childcare support,...
Recommendation
The Department is currently exceeding its expected proportion of claimants in receipt of childcare support, but it admits that some low-income parents still have difficulty accessing appropriate childcare, for reasons both within and outside its direct control. We recommend the …
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Government Response Summary
The Department is reviewing the considerations as to the usefulness of more regular publications of UC childcare data and will keep the committee informed on this decision. Research on 'why take-up isn't higher' has been concluded but is still being quality assured.
Department for Work and Pensions
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13
Deferred
Para 86
We recommend that the Department for Work and Pensions consult providers on a way that...
Recommendation
We recommend that the Department for Work and Pensions consult providers on a way that costs can be split evenly for people claiming Universal Credit childcare support.
Government Response Summary
The Department for Work and Pensions does not intend to consult with childcare providers, redirecting responsibility to the Department for Education.
Department for Work and Pensions
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Conclusions (2)
9
Conclusion
Deferred
Para 75
The Government offers support on childcare options: notably, the Childcare Choices website and via Jobcentre Plus Work Coaches. DWP told us that Work Coaches receive training in advising UC claimants on their childcare options, but our evidence suggests further work is needed. We also heard that currently, UC claimants referring …
Government Response Summary
The Department states it does not have any jurisdiction to work with childcare providers and therefore, does not intend to consult with providers, as the regulation of childcare lies solely within the DfE remit. The current system of paying childcare costs on receipt of actual costs paid protects the claimant from getting into debt.
14
Conclusion
Deferred
We heard some evidence on how the Department for Work and Pensions could improve or alter conditions in the childcare industry. But we recognise that much of the responsibility for childcare policy sits outside DWP, in the Department for Education. In particular, we heard evidence on whether childcare ratios for …
Government Response Summary
Acknowledges responsibility for childcare policy sits outside DWP, in the Department for Education.