The childcare funding system in England has significantly expanded to support working families.
Eligible working parents can now access up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week (for 38 weeks of the year) for children aged anywhere from 9 months old up until they start school.
To qualify, each parent (or a single parent) must typically work the equivalent of at least 16 hours a week at the National Minimum Wage and earn less than £100,000 per year. It is important to note that the funding is designed to cover early education and care, so childcare providers may still charge optional fees for extras like meals, nappies, or special trips.
Additionally, a universal offer remains in place providing 15 hours of weekly funding for all 3 and 4-year-olds, regardless of parental income or working status.
To check your exact eligibility, calculate your potential savings, or apply for your 11-digit funding code, visit the official government Childcare Choices website.
