Abstract: This issue of Foundation Findings deals with childcare services in Europe. Overall, the childcare sector is growing in the EU; however, working conditions vary in terms of employment practices, opening hours and coverage. Across Europe, a lack of availability, high costs and inaccessibility of services often prevail. Foundation Findings provide pertinent background information and policy pointers for all actors and interested parties engaged in the current European debate on the future of social policy. The contents are based on Foundation research and reflect its autonomous and tripartite structure.