Britain's nursery problem: Parents still face 'childcare deserts'

From September , eligible working parents will be able to access 30 hours of childcare per week during term-time (for 38 weeks ) for their children from the age of nine months to four .

The rollout of what's commonly known as the "free hours " scheme in England is almost complete.

The government estimates that by September , an additional 70,000 extra places and 35,000 staff will be needed to cope with the influx of families wanting spaces.

The cost of childcare in the UK remains one of the highest in OECD countries.

London and the East of England have the highest childcare costs in England .

Only a third of the poorest families use formal childcare, compared to almost three quarters of highest earning households.

Government says it is increasing its funding for all pre-school children to reflect wage increases.

The government is doubling the amount it spends on childcare to help parents back into the workplace.

By 2026 , it will cost around 8bn , but the system is under strain.

The Dfe has announced the largest ever uplift to the early years pupil premium.