Supported childcare funding
Supported childcare funding (SCF) is a short-term funding option for a maximum of 12 weeks. The payment is made directly to the childcare provider. This funding is only available to support children and families who are open to:
- team around the child (TAC)
- child in need (CIN)
- child protection (CP)
- child in care (CIC), where all other networks have previously been explored
SCF applications will only be authorised where:
- it is seen that childcare is necessary to support a wider plan
- there is a clear exit strategy in place following the 12 weeks of support
It should not be used to top-up funded hours that the child is already entitled to. For example, to cover holiday periods.
Ideally, the SCF application should be completed by the lead professional working with a family. This will need to be authorised by the SCF lead advisor before a placement begins.