"Help" with childcare

[amiold]

I'm looking to secure a place for my LO for when I go back to work in September. I've emailed a couple of nurseries but also considering childminders (as some nurseries not flexible which we need around partners shift work).

This help that the government promised isn't likely to come off is it? Just thinking I may -/ well disregard it and not consider which nurseries/Childminded are taking part in the scheme (because what scheme?!)

I don't know anything about it so if anyone has any info I'm all ears

The first phase of the roll out is starting this April (15hrs free for eligible 2 year olds). Read up on the criteria and how to claim. If you haven't already, have a look at tax free childcare too. With that you save 20% of your childcare fees.

educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/01/22/how-to-claim-15-hours-free-childcare-code/

He will be 9 months by September but I just can't see it happening!

I am going to look into the 20% I think we will be eligible for that

I'm a childcare provider that also would have bet against it happening but it seems to be going ahead. Rates all published and asking us to put in the first round of claims so I think it's happening. What I will say tho is try and get a space secured now. Places are going to be like gold dust. If all working parents can claim it, some people who wouldn't use childcare usually will have applied etc etc.

@Looneytune253 and this would be across nursery's and childminders etc?
I thought a lot were opting out because it didn't cover costs?

I think most places will be accepting it as the rates are better than the old rates and it wouldn't make any business sense to refuse to accept the funding as most business will be coming that way if most people are entitled

It's from the term after they turn 9 months, so at what point is he actually 9 months old?

End of July?. He was born 28th October.

At the nursery I use they are prioritising parents who aren’t eligible for funding hours. I presume this is because they can charge more in those circumstances.

@Charlie2121 that's terrible isn't it! I've found a childminder but she is retiring next year so will probably have this battle with nurseries. It's a joke really. I honestly can't believe they've offered it to everyone and not just those who really really need it (ie workers).