Ms Avril Green:

I am a proud early years educator. I love my job and working on the ground every day with children, I see the difference we make. I chose to come into this profession. I upskilled specifically to work in early years and got my degree, but there are big problems. Many early years educators are living pay cheque to pay cheque and this is having a very negative impact on their lives and mental health, as was mentioned. Most cannot get a mortgage or car loan. They have difficultly paying bills, including the cost of childcare for their own children. I have four children. Any unexpected expense is a big issue. If your car breaks down or you need a new washing machine, there can be massive problems and you worry about where the money is going to come from. This is why educators are having to make very hard decisions about the future and whether they can afford to stay working in the sector. So many skilled and experienced educators are voting with their feet and leaving for better paid jobs. We love our work, but love does not pay the bills. Things need to change. We need recognition, respect and better pay.