Anyone claim free nursery hours for 2 year old

[Anonymouseky]

I separated from my husband a few months ago and my income is now low enough for me to qualify for 15 free nursery hours for my child who is 2. I’ve been told I need to have a meeting at my local children’s centre. Has anyone been to one of these and, if so, what does it involve? I thought it would just be a case of proving your income is low

A meeting isn’t necessary no, you just provide your tax credit or universal credit info to the childcare provider if your choice.

That’s what I thought, but the nursery have said I need to contact the children’s centre for some kind of proof

No, the proof is your tax credits award that states your income. It has nothing to do with a children’s centre.

You have to apply for it, there should be information on your local councils website of how to do this. For the income pathway they just use your NI number I think

You have to apply for 2 year funding separately, unlike 3 year funding which is done through the provider

Our children’s centre just send out a letter, just give them a ring and ask