EXCLUSIVE: Childcare providers fell, but places rose in Norfolk last year
The data also shows that 98% of Norfolk's childcare providers were rated as 'Outstanding' or 'Good' in their most recent inspection
Parents in Norfolk tell us they're worried they'll face longer waiting lists and higher costs - as we can reveal that the number of childcare providers in the county fell at the end of last year.
According to Ofsted's figures - six sites closed their doors between August and December, but there were 66 more individual places for toddlers offered going into 2025.
The data also shows that 98% of Norfolk's childcare providers were rated as 'Outstanding' or 'Good' in their most recent inspection.
"It could mean that we're left with fewer choices, longer waiting lists and potentially higher costs"
Rebecca Wright lives near Norwich and is works with the maternity rights group, 'Pregnant then Screwed': "Closures are affecting a lot more of the smaller and independent childcare providers.
"That's normally down to the increase in financial pressures and struggles when it comes to the recruitment and retention of staff.
"What's happening at the moment is that the larger providers are expanding what they can offer to cover the gaps that are coming up.
"For parents across Norfolk - if this continues it could mean that we're left with few choices, longer waiting lists and potentially higher costs.
"While there are some providers increasing their capacity- it doesn't necessarily mean that the new places are going to be in the places that parents need them the most."
The numbers in more detail:
August 31st to December 31st 2024, (in Norfolk):
Number of providers on the Early Years Register on Aug 31st: 556
Number of providers on the Early Years Register on Dec 31st: 550
Childcare places on the Early Years Register on Aug 31st: 14,346
Childcare places on the Early Years Register on Dec 31st: 14,412
(Source: Ofsted)
What is the Government doing for childcare?
The Government say it's set aside an extra £1.8 billion in the Autumn Budget to fund the expansion of free childcare hours for working parents.
What's currently available?
Working parents in England may be able to get free childcare for a child, If your child is:
-9 months to 2 years old, (you can get 15 hours per week of free childcare).
-3 to 4 years old, (you can get 30 hours per week of free childcare).
As of September 2025:
-Working parents of children aged 9 months to 4 years will be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare per week.