Business Sustainability Plant growing

Sustainability is a big issue for nursery businesses which often operate to very tight margins. Explore the two significant financial pressures alongside rising utility bills and our guidance below.

National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage

In April 2020 average nursery pay rolls increase by more than 6% following the annual increase of the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage. NDNA supports the principle of better wages for nursery staff but Government funding has consistently failed to rise at the same pace to help childcare providers to meet this expense.

From 1 April 2020 these rates are: 

Resources:

  • NDNA 'A guide to The Living Wage' factsheet
  • NDNA 'Naming and Shaming' factsheet - ensure you abide by the rules of the National Minimum Wage.

Rising Business Rates

Rising Business Rates, in many cases by 50% or more in England, Scotland and Wales, have put an additional burden on nursery finances.

NDNA has been campaigning hard for 100% exemption from Business Rates for nurseries.

In Scotland, as a result of our campaign, the Scottish Government gave full business rates relief for nursery businesses. Find out more on the business rates page for Scotland below.

In Wales, as a result of campaigning, the Welsh Government has given all nursery businesses rates relief. Find out more on the business rates page for Wales below.

Resources: