Our survey closed in December 2025, and the results are finally in. 164 respondents have given us their views on the childcare sector and their thoughts for this year, and we’ve wrapped them all up into one set of results and insights.
The executive summary is as follows, and you can see the full results for yourself by filling in the form below. We’ll release more of the information and deep dive into what the results mean as the year goes on, but here’s the top-level view – [] refers to question numbers:
Childcare Sector Survey 2025: In Summary
A lot changed last year, and 2026 is sure to prove no different. But most (92%) who took this survey feel ready to face those challenges to some degree when it comes to inspections [1], even if the current landscape of funding updates, inspection changes and staff challenges is affecting their mental health. The majority of those negatively affected are Directors/Owners, but it runs through the workforce where at least 42% consider themselves affected at every job level [13]. There may be an epidemic of work burnout coming, which will add even more strain to those seemingly constant issues with hiring and retention.
It’s the issue that doesn’t seem to be going away, with 69% saying they foresee staffing challenges coming up this year [11]. This isn’t limited to childcare of course, as the rise in minimum wage and national insurance contributions has hit many small businesses, but most of those small businesses aren’t expected to give away their product at a mandated loss.
Only 50% reported using their contacts and network (whether fellow owners or sector thought leaders) to reach their level of inspection preparation [2]. There’s plenty of room to grow, but it’s heartening to see that network being used, and we’re going to do what we can to help everyone rise together in 2026.
There’s something of a mismatch between those who feel financially strong/secure, and that are confident it’s going to stay that way for the next three years [6, 7]. Predictable unpredictability isn’t known for filling people with confidence, so the best thing to do is have strategies in place that can mould to whatever comes. Everyone is doing, or will be doing, something to improve their financial stability [8].
There’s a lot of variance in this survey, leaving us confident that we reached a good snapshot of the childcare sector. In next year’s survey we’ll reach further, go higher, and delve deeper into the heart of UK childcare to understand where we can help, or make voices heard.
One thing’s for certain – we’re all in this together, and what you do everyday for every child in your care truly matters.
Fill in the form to download the results:
