Festival of Social Science - Working 9 to 5: How does childcare fit?
Published: 23 September 2025
As part of the Festival of Social Science, join the Centre for Public Policy for an in-person public event on 7 November 2025. Hosted by the Centre for Public Policy in collaboration with Pregnant Then Screwed, this event will share new research on childcare policy in Scotland. Dr Claire MacRae will present the findings, followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale.
Key details
Friday 7 November 2025
10.30am - 12.30pm
Room 237C, The Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre (ARC),
11 Chapel Lane, University of Glasgow, G11 6EW
Book your place through the Festival of Social Sciences
Event information
Investing in Early Learning and Childcare: Why It Matters for Families and Communities.
The Centre for Public Policy (CPP), in partnership with Pregnant Then Screwed, invites you to a special event showcasing new research on the challenges and opportunities in early learning and childcare (ELC) provision.
Affordable, high-quality childcare is vital for children’s well-being and for parents to access work and training. But despite progress in Scotland, many families still face challenges in finding and paying for the childcare they need.
The event will be chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale and includes:
- A presentation of research findings from a recent report focusing on a change to the delivery of childcare in one Scottish Local Authority, exploring policy, practice, and impact.
- Expert panel discussion on the opportunities and challenges in childcare for families.
- Audience Q&A session an opportunity to ask the experts.
This event brings together academics, policymakers, practitioners, and advocates to reflect on the role of childcare policy in shaping socio-economic outcomes for families and communities.
Speakers
- Dr Claire MacRae, Senior Lecturer in Public Policy, Centre for Public Policy, UofG
- Carole Erskine, Head of Policy and Campaigns, Pregnant Then Screwed
- Carmen Martinez, Policy and Engagement Lead, Scottish Women’s Budget Group
- Eleanor Passmore, Thrive at Five Scotland
- Lorna Kettles, Policy and Engagement Manager, Early Years Scotland
This is a public event. It's open to anyone, and of particular interest to those with an interest in childcare, family policy and social policy.
A table of activities, games, and refreshments will be available for any children coming along. We hope to see you there!
Book your place through the Festival of Social Sciences
First published: 23 September 2025
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Key details
Friday 7 November 2025
10.30am - 12.30pm
Room 237C, The Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Centre (ARC),
11 Chapel Lane, University of Glasgow, G11 6EW
Open to all