SDLP Social Justice Spokesperson Nichola Mallon MLA has appealed to MPs to save the Childcare Voucher Scheme which is facing the axe next month.Employers for Childcare say that the scheme, earmarked for closure from 6th April 2018, would benefit over 66% of callers to their Family Benefits Advice Service.
The SDLP’s deputy leader said: “Childcare is one of the highest outgoings in any household with working parents.
“The latest Employers for Childcare survey reveals that the average cost of full-time childcare in Northern Ireland is £168 per week. That’s the equivalent of almost 40% of average household income.
“The Childcare Voucher Scheme is one initiative aimed at reducing the financial burden on working families by allowing them to take a portion of their wages in childcare vouchers, free from tax and national insurance.
“Unfortunately that scheme is under threat and is now earmarked for closure on 6th April.
“MPs will vote on the closure of the scheme later today and I’ve written to each of them urging their support for retaining the scheme.
“Hard pressed households have suffered severe financial hardship in recent years.
“Withdrawing a critical childcare support will only force more people out of work to stay at home and we already know that decisions like that disproportionately take women out of the workforce.
“We should all do what we can to encourage people to return to work. I’m urging MPs to back this vital scheme that does just that,” she added.
