Childcare incentives

Unions have welcomed Chancellor Gordon Brown's announcement in the pre-budget statement earlier this month, that he is to provide incentives to employers to support good quality childcare.

From April 2005 employers can provide financial support of up to £50 a week for the cost of formal childcare, including nurseries and childminders, or in the form of childcare vouchers. Employers who provide these benefits will be eligible for tax and national insurance exemptions.

Tony Woodley, general secretary of the T&G general union, called the announcement "a very positive move that will help relieve some of the childcare burden for many working families".