PRESS RELEASE: Parents less likely to leave kids alone on hols after Madeleine disappearance

BRITISH parents are less likely to use hotel baby childcare services following the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, according to a new survey.

The survey by award-winning family travel website takethefamily.com showed that 62% of parents were now less likely to leave their children alone in their room using baby listening or in the care of hotel or resort staff.

Takethefamily managing director Lucy Ace said: “The tragic disappearance of Madeleine McCann has obviously had a dramatic effect on parents’ attitudes.

“Such incidents are extremely rare but it has definitely made parents re-evaluate their holiday childcare – whether it’s baby listening or even qualified babysitting.”

In the survey 25% said recent news stories had had no effect on their attitude.

“Holiday childcare has become increasingly sophisticated with resorts and hotels offering supervised cinema clubs and children’s activities while parents have dinner,” added Lucy Ace.

“Fully vetted babysitting and nanny services using local or often British-qualified staff have also proved popular in recent years but the result of this survey shows the Madeleine story has made parents think again.”