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The True Cost of Childcare

A Financial Times and FT FLIC Webinar to mark International Women’s Day

Aired on Friday 8 March | Now Available On-demand

Presented by

In Partnership with

Ahead of a general election later this year, the high cost and poor availability of UK childcare has shot up the political agenda.

But campaigners argue recent reforms have not gone far enough. Flexible working is an important part of the solution, and encouraging steps have been made towards legislating for this - but are bosses really sold on the benefits? And what might the opposition Labour party do differently if it takes over from the ruling Conservatives? What can the UK learn from other countries?

In honour of International Women's Day, the Financial Times hosted a free one-hour online lunch and learn event, organised in partnership with the FT's Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign charity and the FT Women employee network, which examined the impact of childcare costs on women's finances, careers and future earnings potential - and why everyone needs to play a part in solving one of society's big injustices.

Alongside discussing effects on mothers' finances and careers, the conversation also focused on the related financial impact on older women if they are having to care for grandchildren.

The Q&A, featuring prominent campaigners and financial experts, was chaired by Claer Barrett, the FT's consumer editor and presenter of the Money Clinic podcast.

Meet our panelists

Claer Barrett

Consumer Editor

Financial Times

Joeli Brearley

Founder

Pregnant Then Screwed

Anna Whitehouse

Founder

Mother Pukka

Maike Currie

Head of Marketing Campaigns & Content

Hargreaves Lansdown

FT Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign

The Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign (FLIC) was established as a charity by the Financial Times in 2021 to promote financial literacy where it is needed most to benefit our three target groups: women, young people, and marginalised communities. Find out how to get involved and support FLIC.

The True Cost of Childcare

Ahead of a general election later this year, the high cost and poor availability of UK childcare has shot up the political agenda.

Meet our panelists

FT Financial Literacy and Inclusion Campaign

We’re here to help