England’s nurseries are warning that rising costs could lead to increased fees and potential closures, despite a £2bn government funding boost for free childcare set to begin in September. The National Day Nurseries Association highlights that the funding won’t fully cover wage and National Insurance hikes, with some nurseries potentially passing costs onto parents. Experts express concerns about a staffing crisis and unequal access to quality childcare across regions, prompting calls for further support for families in disadvantaged areas.