Big changes are coming for working parents of children aged 2 by 31st March 2024.  The government is offering 15 hours free childcare for 38 weeks of the year (subject to eligibility).  

This change is going to mean a significant increase in parents wanting childcare for the first time.

Childcare Choices is a cross-government campaign that aims to make more parents aware of the financial support on offer to help them with the costs of childcare. While most families in the UK are entitled to some form of support, many are missing out because they simply don’t know they are eligible. And from April 2024, even more working parents can get help with their childcare costs, starting with 15 hours childcare for 2-year-olds.

The Childcare Choices website has now been updated to allow parents to find out what they will be
eligible for and when to apply. They will also be able to sign up to a newsletter which will give them further information as the expansion is rolled out. Financial support is not limited to just nurseries and childminders. Depending on eligibility criteria, this support could also be used for breakfast clubs; after-schools clubs; activity clubs; holiday clubs; home care workers and play schemes. Support is available through Tax-Free Childcare for children up to 11, or 16 if disabled, and with Universal Credit for Childcare can help with childcare costs for children aged 0-16.

Please visit the Childcare Choices website to find out if you are eligible.