Child care costs

[Pippinsqueak]

Sorry if this seems silly and please be kind. I have an 8 week old baby and worked full time prior. Husband also works full time doing nights. I'm already worrying about what I'm going to do after 9 months may leave when I don't get any money so will be forced to go back to work. I'd love to stay home but not sure if it's possible.

Who is best to speak to to see if we are entitled to any help for child care (if any as I only entitled to £80 a month). We re not high earning in the slightest either. Also who do we go to about finding out about childcare/costs? Is it CAB?

Many thanks

Try an online calculator like entitledto

To find out about childcare costs, you need to make enquiries with local childcare providers. What sort of childcare would you be looking for - a childminder (who you take your baby to and your baby is cared for in the childminders home as part of a small group), a nursery (where you take your baby and they are cared for in a group, size varies), a nanny (who comes to your home to care for your child - more costly than other options but useful if you need care very early or very late in the day, or at weekends).

Family Information Service is typically run by your county council. They will list local childminders and nurseries. Lists can be a bit out of date but it gives you a starting point for getting in touch with people and finding out How Much, days/hours of care, If they have availability.

Childcare listings websites can also be useful such as www.childcare.co.uk

See www.childcarechoices.gov.uk for information on the schemes available to help with childcare costs.

Thank you

Hi, I haven't been out very much and I'm new to this. I was wondering what the going rate for babysitting/childsitting is? I have a lady who is happy to look after my 9 month year old for a couple of hours a day, 3 times a week. I know and trust her and she has childcare experience. I live in Sheffield. I want to make sure I am paying the right amount. Thank you