Childminders in Northern Ireland are facing significant financial strain due to soaring heating oil prices, which have reportedly doubled over the past year. With 62.5% of homes relying on oil for heating, many families are feeling the impact as childminders consider raising their fees to cope with increased costs.
The ongoing conflict in Iran has contributed to an 80% rise in heating oil prices since before the war began. A support scheme for low-income households has been introduced, but many are still struggling to manage their budgets amid these rising expenses.