Children may be left home alone in school holidays

Holiday childcare can be a particular problem for parents with schools, school-based nurseries and playgroups closed. And as prices continue to rise, many may find it difficult to find holiday cover, hence more children may be left unsupervised, says the Family and Childcare Trust.

The charities' survey of Britain's nurseries and childminders suggests a week's childcare in holiday periods now averages £109.23 - a rise of 9.2% since last year and more than £100 for the first time.

The report suggested paying for childcare for two children over four weeks of the holidays would cost parents more than £850 - a price beyond the reach of many.

The report found older school-age children were likely to be hardest hit with cuts to youth services leading to reductions in the availability of play schemes and youth clubs.

The government has set up a Childcare Commission to look at making childcare more affordable. It is expected to report imminently.