Bridget Phillipson, the UK Education Secretary, has initiated a competition review to address hidden charges in childcare that are burdening parents. Despite the government's expansion of funded childcare hours, many families are still facing additional costs, such as non-refundable deposits and charges for essentials like meals and nappies. This review, requested from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), aims to assess how these practices impact families and whether ownership models, particularly private equity, contribute to rising costs. Recent polling shows that nearly three-quarters of parents are tapping into their savings to manage these unexpected expenses, with affordability cited as a significant barrier to accessing necessary childcare. In response to ongoing financial pressures, the government has introduced the 'Great Summer Savings' scheme, which includes initiatives like free bus travel for children and the removal of tariffs on basic goods. Furthermore, a new online tool is being launched to assist parents in understanding their childcare entitlements and estimating costs, with a pilot program currently underway in select regions. Phillipson remains committed to ensuring that families receive the benefits they were promised through the childcare scheme, which saves an average of £8,000 per child annually.