Childcare Vouchers!

[PurpleSweetPeas]

Argh, I need to vent at the system and myself as clearly I've missed the highly important bit of info!

I was with one employer before being transferred by TUPE to another employer. First employer operated a childcare voucher scheme that I paid into and have about £550 in there (I really want to cry).

What I didn't realise is that once you leave an employer the only way you can use that money is for childcare except I probably won't need to now do it's stuck there as I can't get a refund as not a current employee.

(Off to cry angry, frustrated tears which may be PMT induced as much as anything)

Are your children of age where they do PGL holidays? That may be a way to use them.

How old are your children OP? Some holiday schemes also use them as well, and after school clubs

I used mine to pay for holiday childcare during the summer at the outdoor pursuits centre. They're good till child is 12 years old.

I think you can only ever use them for childcare? They always warn you not to buy more than you need because they can't be refunded.

So I don't think changing employer has made any difference.

As others have said, can you not use them for holiday club childcare?

Ditto… use for childcare?

Definitely holiday clubs.

You've only ever been able to use it for childcare?

This is why tax free childcare is so much better!

@tiggerwhocamefortea

You've only ever been able to use it for childcare?

Yes this

My kids are 12 and 9. My work has changed since Covid to be able to work from home and it's pretty flexible so it's likely I won't need it. I haven't used any since March 2020.

It's my own fault I know, but just frustrating.

The PGL thing is interesting though. Thank you

I use mine for holiday clubs but also specifically there is a tennis club nearby which runs tennis camps in holidays and they accept them. It's worth exploring ways to use them.

Explore Learning accepts them for in-person learning. See if there is a centre near you: www.explorelearning.co.uk/find-a-centre/map/

You might not need the childcare but you may be able to find fun holiday activities for them to do. Mine often like camps when I’m off work as they can partake in their interests or spend time with their friends. Given the money is already spent, it’s worth looking into.