UK Summer Holiday Childcare Costs Rise 4% to £1,076 Amid SEND Shortages

The average cost of summer holiday childcare clubs in the UK has risen to £1,076 per child for the six-week school break, marking a 4% increase from last year, according to research by the Coram Family and Childcare charity. Prices vary regionally, with Wales charging the highest weekly rate at around £210 and Yorkshire and the Humber experiencing the biggest annual increase of 13%. Holiday childcare costs are more than double those of after-school clubs during term time, with childminders charging even higher rates, averaging £234 per week nationally and peaking at £306 in Inner London. There is a significant shortage of holiday childcare places, particularly for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), with some regions reporting zero availability for at least three-quarters of such children. The charity urges the government to increase funding, training, and support for holiday childcare providers and to maintain the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme beyond March 2026 to assist disadvantaged families. Parents face difficult choices balancing work and childcare amid rising costs, often leading to financial strain and career impacts.