Active discussions

Please or to access all these features

Talk
Paid childcare

Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Original poster

Childcare Costs

31 replies

McMum2b · 20/10/2020 07:25

Hi, me and my partner have decided to start trying for a baby which I'm over the moon about but I've been looking at childcare and it actually makes me wonder if I can afford to have a baby as I don't know how I am going to be able to afford nursery or a childminder. Unfortunately my Mum has passed away and my Dad lives too far away and my other halfs parents are unable to help.

I know a lot of people say there is never a time that you can afford a baby but for a local I'm looking at around £600 a month and we just don't have that kind of money.

My Maternity leave is only 6 weeks and then I am hoping I will be able to work from home full time for a month and then drop to 3 days and home and then 2. It is difficult though as I am on the phone to clients and candidates all day. I am also unable to be a stay at home mum as again I can't afford to do so.

Any advise would be much appreciated.

Thanks x

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Set a reminder
RoundTheTwister · 20/10/2020 08:21

It is expensive, there's no getting round that. I work 3 days a week and we were paying around £600 a month in nursery fees but this has dropped to £30 a month now she has turned 3 and we get the free hours so it's not forever (though DD2 starts in Feb so it will be as bad again!). Can you start saving now? Also as a PP said, tax free childcare helps a little bit.

Apple40 · 20/10/2020 08:18

There is help out there, you will get child benefit, and can apply for universal credits to help with costs you have to pay the invoice first and then they give you up to 80% back, you can sign up to tax free childcare vouchers this is where you pay 80% and the government tops it up by 20%. Then once they are 3 you will get the 15 or 30 hours funded hours depending on how many hours you work a week and if eligible funding from age two. Childminders are generally cheaper than nurserys but with both you will most likely have to pay in advance and you will pay for any sick or holiday days you take. Some also charge a deposit to secure your space.

Original poster
McMum2b · 20/10/2020 08:15

Thank you

OP posts:
Original poster
McMum2b · 20/10/2020 08:15

I earn 24k plus commission, my other half is 30k plus yearly bonus.
All of our outgoing together are around £2400 a month.

OP posts:
GeorgieTheGorgeousGoat · 20/10/2020 07:50

Start saving now
Shop around
Tax free childcare

kittykat35 · 20/10/2020 07:42

What does your dh earn?
What do you earn?
What are your (both of you) outgoings??