From September 2017 we are offering 30 hours free childcare. Book your place now!
The government have made a commitment to help working families with the cost of their childcare. At present all 3 & 4 year olds receive 15 hours free childcare, and even some 2 year olds. However this is now set to increase to 30 hours for working parents.
Eligibility
You can usually get 30 hours free childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are:
• in work - or getting parental leave, sick leave or annual leave
• each earning at least the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week - this is £120 if you’re over 25
This earnings limit doesn’t apply if you’re self-employed and started your business less than 12 months ago.
You’re not eligible if:
• your child doesn’t usually live with you
• the child is your foster child
• either you or your partner has a taxable income over £100,000
You can get 30 hours free childcare at the same time as claiming Universal Credit, tax credits or childcare vouchers.
If you can’t work
You may still be eligible if your partner is working, and you get Incapacity Benefit, Severe Disablement Allowance, Carer’s Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance.
Applying for 30 hours free childcare
You’ll need your details (and your partner’s, if you have one), including your:
• National Insurance number
• Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), if you’re self-employed
You’ll find out if you’re eligible as part of your application. It usually takes 20 minutes to complete.
You’ll get a childcare account if your application is successful. You can use it to get your code for 30 hours free childcare.
You may not get your code straight away. If you apply on 31 August or before, valid codes can still be used for the term starting in September. Check with your childcare provider or your local authority to find out if places in your area are still available.
If you pay for childcare and want to use Tax-Free Childcare to get help with costs, you can also apply using this service.
Many parents already qualify and are taking up the spaces.
The process is simple, visit the childcare choices website, where you can apply now https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ and we’ll do the rest when you come and see us!
Many nurseries in the Rochdale area and around the UK are not offering the 30 hours citing the government’s lack of funding, but here at Laroche Day Nursery we’re fully committed and believe it’s the only way the cost of childcare can be reduced for parents, therefore spaces are being filled swiftly so it is important you book your place as soon as possible.
