I hope you're not too fed up with these questions and can help me work this out.
I'm currently due my first child in 4 weeks. I earn approx 24k per year, and my DP, who is self-employed is currently running at a loss,so on his self-assessment form, he has not made any profit this year (or last year actually)
I'm planning to return to work when the baby is about 7 months old, and we've been quoted around £110 per week for registered childcare. I'm sweating buckets at the prospect of finding this money every month. I simply don't know where it'll come from. I'm trying to work out if i'll be entitled to any help towards childcare, and the 'entitledto' website says that we would be able to get around £2500 or so per year, which would be great help. The thing is, I've heard so many people on this website being told one thing, then the reality is different. The prosect of even applying is scary, with all the stories over over-payments/being threatened with court etc. I think it's a crying shame that people are put off even trying through fear that they'll make an error.
I really hope someone gives me good news, otherwise I might be looking at a weekend job as well!....