It's not always clear about what help you can get with childcare costs, and if you've been trying to stretch your MAT leave pay over the past few months, returning to work and finding out about childcare costs can feel really overwhelming.
If you didn't know already, the Government announced plans for funded 15 hours childcare for children over the age of two, extending to children from nine-months-old from September 2024. This is a huge step in helping to not only encourage parents back to go back to work, but also alleviates a potentially huge financial strain from having to pay a lot for childcare.
Here's everything you need to know about getting help with childcare costs.
Free childcare hours
Parents can apply for 15 hours childcare for children aged 9 months up to 3 years old starting September 1st.
Working parents will be able to check their eligibility criteria on the Childcare Choices website to find out what childcare offers are available to them, before applying online through the GOV website.
Once applied, parents will receive a code they can give to childcare providers to give them the discount. You will however, need to reconfirm your details every three months in order to receive the government support.
Depending on eligibility criteria, this support could also be used for, after-schools clubs, activity clubs, holiday clubs, home care workers, and play schemes. The support can help families and ease the pressure on their budgets while supporting parents to work, knowing their children are in a supportive environment.
The deadline to apply is 31 August 2024 for parents to use their hours from 1 September 2024.
Free early education
The UK government offers several initiatives to help with childcare costs. While the free early education is being expanded to support parents with children from 9 months old, here's the free early education that may still apply to some childcare settings.
Free early education for 3 and 4 year olds
All families in England are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare or early education per week for 38 weeks of the year, starting the term after their child’s third birthday. Working parents who meet specific criteria can access an additional 15 hours, totalling 30 hours per week.
Free early education for 2 year olds
Some families with lower incomes may be eligible for 15 hours of free childcare per week for 2-year-olds. Eligibility depends on factors such as income, whether the child has special educational needs, or if they are looked after by the local authority.
Universal Credit for childcare costs
Parents who receive Universal Credit and are working can claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs. The maximum claim is £646 per month for one child and £1,108 for two or more children.
Local Authority Support
Local authorities in the UK provide various forms of support, especially for families with specific needs:
Sure Start Children’s Centres:
These centres offer a range of services for families with children under 5, including playgroups, parenting classes, health services, and information on childcare options. They can be a valuable resource for early education and support.
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Support
For children with special educational needs or disabilities, local authorities can offer additional support, including tailored childcare services and financial assistance.
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best and current trending products for little ones and for cute seasonal outfits.