Childcare funding — made simple
Not sure what you're entitled to? We'll help you work out exactly what support is available — no jargon, no pressure.
Funding can be confusing. We'll guide you through it.
Many families are entitled to free or reduced-cost nursery places but aren’t always sure what they can claim, when to apply, or how it all fits together.
Whether you’re working, studying, on Universal Credit, or unsure where to start — just get in touch. We can check what you may be eligible for and explain it in plain English.
Help you may be entitled to
Depending on your circumstances, one or more of the following may apply.
Funded Childcare Hours
Eligible children can access 15 or 30 funded hours per week: 15 hours for qualifying 2-year-olds, 15 universal hours for all 3 and 4-year-olds, and up to 30 hours for eligible working families.
Ages 2–4Tax-Free Childcare
For every £8 you pay into your childcare account, the government adds £2 — up to £2,000 per child each year — towards fees and extra hours.
Working familiesUniversal Credit Childcare
If you receive Universal Credit and are working (or starting soon), you may be able to claim back a large percentage of your eligible childcare costs.
UC claimantsEarly Years Pupil Premium
Some children attract EYPP — extra funding paid to the nursery to support their development. For eligible children we can put this straight towards their care.
Eligible childrenDisability Access Funding
If your child receives Disability Living Allowance and accesses funded childcare, we may be able to claim DAF to provide additional support and resources.
DLA recipientsHelp While Studying
Some parents in full-time education may also be entitled to help with childcare costs, including young parents and eligible students.
StudentsEYPP children: no daily meal charge
Where a child attracts Early Years Pupil Premium, we put that funding straight towards their care so eligible children can access their place without extra financial barriers.
We want every child to access nursery fully. If you think your child may be eligible, ask us and we’ll check together.
Extra support for eligible childrenJust tell us a little about your family
You don’t need to understand every scheme before getting in touch. Share a few simple details and we’ll work it out together.
- 1 Your child’s date of birth and when you’d like them to start
- 2 Whether you work, study or receive Universal Credit
- 3 Whether your child receives DLA or has additional needs
- 4 Whether you already have a childcare code from HMRC
- 5 How many days or hours per week you’re looking for
Funding eligibility depends on each family’s circumstances and is confirmed by HMRC, your local council or the relevant scheme. We can guide families, but final decisions are made by the relevant funding body.
Not sure where to start?
No obligation and no complicated forms — just a simple conversation about what's available for your family.
01772 628448