Still paying childcare while government closes nurseries 19 March at 9:20AM in Child Support 5 replies 272 views

samchelsie

Im not sure where is best to post or ask this question?
As off next week the childminder I use for my 18 month old has followed government guidelines and will be closing. They have stated that full fees will still be payable during the closed period. (And lets face who knows how long this will last) Is this something they can do or is there any help for parents out there?
Hoping someone can help
Any advice appreciated 

Michelle_1992

Also wondering this myself as I’ve been told the same thing.

ToxicWomble

Are you still getting paid for being off ?

pjcox2005

ToxicWomble said:

Are you still getting paid for being off ?

That's not really the same thing though is it. Someone may be paid whilst off, either sick pay or a company supporting them, but that's because the company has factored it into their budget and set aside money for it.
I expect for example, a lawyer's clients are not paying them for work they don't do, bar staff aren't being paid by customers still paying money without receiving any service/drink, cinema staff aren't being paid by customers not allowed into the building to watch a film.

We've got the same. I expect it comes down to what contract did you sign and then how enforceable it is? Many will be 1 months notice so I guess the other option is to cancel and then see how lucky you are with a spot being available when you come back to needing it.

ELou1978

I'm in the same boat with regards nursery, I'm also self employed and trying to understand what help there maybe, if any as I'm also a single parent. 

Galloglass

There is a simple remedy for this ( though not for the virus). Search for "frustration of contract".

Basically the nurseries are saying you have a contract. Gyms will be saying the same thing. But unless there is a term in the contract that says 'in the event there is a virus and we have to close you owe us money etc.' they are stuffed. 

Expect all sorts of threats but face them down and explain "frustration of contract" to them