Lib Dems say better childcare could be ‘shot in the arm’ for Scottish economy

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has insisted his party’s childcare plans would not only help parents but could also be “the shot in the arm that our economy needs”.

The Scottish Lib Dems want to ensure all youngsters can get the 1,140 hours of care they are entitled to straight away after their third birthday.

They also want action to make the childcare system more flexible and are pledging to work to improve take-up of funded hours amongst families with eligible two-year-olds.

Mr Cole-Hamilton raised the issue in the run-up to next month’s Holyrood election, stressing that “every child deserves the best start in life and the chance to flourish, no matter their background or personal circumstances”.

He added: “In a modern, 21st century Scotland, parents should have the full support of the government in balancing their careers with having children.

“Right now, there are too many gaps in childcare and too many families are struggling to make ends meet.

“They should have real choice and flexibility over how to organise their lives and return to work if they want to. This should be backed up by increased support for private, voluntary and independent nurseries, preventing a loss of staff from the sector and giving parents more choice when accessing childcare.

“It would also be the shot in the arm that our economy needs. If parents are better supported with childcare costs, they will find it easier to return to work which will, in turn, raise tax revenues and increase the money available for public services.”