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Ministry of Defence: Childcare

Answer

The Ministry of Defence does not hold fee information related to UK based childcare centrally, and this could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Childcare provision in the UK Defence estate is typically delivered by third-parties, with contractual and charging relationships established between the provider and user. The Department does not routinely monitor or intervene in these activities, nor does it set fees. In certain overseas locations, Defence does operate childcare settings through Defence Children Services; there has been no change in fees at these locations over the period in question.

The Department recognises the importance of accessible and affordable childcare in supporting Service personnel and their families. To that end, Defence provides a range of support measures, including the Wraparound Childcare (WAC) scheme, which offers financial assistance towards before- and after-school childcare for eligible Service children. The WAC scheme helps mitigate the additional challenges of Service life, such as mobility and deployment, by contributing to childcare costs, thereby supporting recruitment and retention.

In addition to the WAC scheme, eligible Service families may benefit from other government-backed childcare support, such as Tax-Free Childcare and funded childcare entitlements.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

1720

Session

2026-27

Subjects

Childcare Fees and charges Ministry of Defence

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk