Pregnant - UC, childcare costs and SSP

[Chocolateforbrekky]

Hi

I didn’t know where to post this, so my apologies if it’s on the wrong board.

I’m pregnant and have hyperemesis, basically in and out of hospital all the time at the moment.
This is a surprise pregnancy, but an absolute blessing - I’m also a single parent.

I claim UC, I work a job that offers SSP, no contractual sick pay as it’s 0 hour contract.
My 11 month old attends nursery 3x per week so I can work, the fees have been extortionate, but I’ve had UC support which has allowed me to work.
Now I’m sick and will just getting SSP from work, I’m worried that UC won’t help to pay the childcare element of nursery costs - my daughter is thriving at nursery, I don’t want to pull her out! Especially while I’m struggling with pregnancy illness. On top of being poorly, I’m losing sleep over this. I have little support around me if I’m honest.

So - does anyone know if UC will pay towards nursery costs if I’m receiving SSP alone from a 0 hour contract job?
Any light on this would be appreciated, Im so anxious as it is and I can’t seem to find out. I’ve tried getting in touch with UC and citizens advice, but it’s hard with severe nausea and vomiting to talk over the phone (and they don’t seem to answer when I wait anyway!!!) and I’m having no luck with UC online contact.

Please help if you can shed any light!
Thanks

If you're on SSP (or SMP etc) you should still be treated as being in paid work:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-childcare-costs

Scroll down to Who is eligible for Universal Credit childcare costs

Thank you so much for you reply.

It's probably my anxiety that's bothering me so much about it, money is tight for the majority of people isn't it I guess.
What you've sent me has given me some confidence, it's just the 'may also be eligible' that's bothering me.

Thanks again for your reply, and for showing me this though, I really appreciate it.