Changes to funded childcare
The upcoming expansion
Starting from April 2024, childcare support will expand in phases. By September 2025, most working families with children from 9 months up to the age of 5 years will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare support.
The changes are being introduced in phases:
- From April 2024, working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.
- From September 2024, working parents of 9 month olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.
- From September 2025, working parents of children from 9 months to 5 years will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare support.
You can use your hours per week for 38 weeks of the year (term time). You may be able to use your hours for up to 52 weeks if you use fewer than your total hours per week.
Check with your childcare provider to find out how they deliver funded childcare in their setting. Please note that providers may ask for charges in addition to the funded childcare.
You can use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credits whilst claiming your 15 or 30 hours of childcare support. For eligibility criteria and further information please visit www.childcarechoices.gov.uk