Start-up Tackles Employee Absence with Back-up Childcare Insurance
Every working parent knows the dreaded phone call: “Hello, this is the nursery. Your child is sick, and you need to pick them up immediately.” This scenario often leads to parents leaving work unexpectedly, scrambling for alternative care arrangements, and disrupting their workday. A new start-up called Yurtle, based in London, is offering a solution to help employers navigate these challenges by providing affordable insurance policies for back-up childcare.

Antonio Ribeiro said employers would now be able to afford to help employees who need support with back-up care
Yurtle’s policies cost between £80 and £110 per employee annually, providing them with emergency childcare coverage worth thousands of pounds throughout the year. Crucially, the insurance pays out quickly, typically within a week of a valid claim. This service mirrors the kind of benefits previously reserved for high-earning employees in industries like City investment banks and law firms.
This innovative approach offers a practical response to a common workplace issue. By providing accessible coverage for unexpected childcare needs, Yurtle aims to reduce the disruption caused by employee absences related to family care.