Help! Not sure when my childcare eligibility will kick in

[Saltysweets]

Hi, can anybody help me? I’ve been going round and round in circles trying to figure out if I will be eligible for the childcare code based on my start date for my new job.

I’m starting a new job on the 9th of May, and it says I can apply for 30 hours free childcare 31 days prior. Does this mean that my free hours will kick in only from September? If I start the job in May without a childcare code, I will be paying upto £4000 for the four months upto September if so.

Can somebody please clarify?
Thank you x

@Saltysweets

"I dont think the fact you are incurring £4k of childcare costs should really come into it. When i go back to work after mat leave, my DD will be 10months and I'll be paying for full time childcare until she is 3yrs. Many many civil servants are in the same boat as me. So whilst its unfortunate, I'm not sure it would sway any decision about taking Aug off, IYSWIM?"

@GuidingSpirit I see exactly what you mean! I have sent an email asking them to consider a summer break and a March start now. Keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best.

Part of me is worried they'll take back the job offer now because I am making too many requests/demands/changes 😫😪

Good luck! I have never heard of an offer being rescinded other than for failing pre-employment checks so fingers crossed for you!

Thank you @GuidingSpirit. That's encouraging.