Entitlements
You may be able to get free childcare if you have a 2-year-old and get certain benefits.
All 3 and 4 year olds in England are also entitled to 15 hours of free early education or childcare per week.
When to apply for 15 hours free childcare
You can apply from when your child is 23 weeks old.
| When your child is 9 months old | When you can get your hours from | When to apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1 September to 31 December | Term starting on or after 1 January | The term before 1 January |
| 1 January to 31 March | Term starting on or after 1 April | The term before 1 April |
| 1 April to 31 August | Term starting on or after 1 September | The term before 1 September |
How to claim
For the working parent entitlement for children aged 9 months to 4 years:
Apply for free childcare if you're working
Two year funding for families who are receiving additional benefits:
Check if you are eligible for funding
Alternatively, you can contact a sure start center or day care provider who can complete an eligibility check on your behalf.
What funded childcare covers
Funded childcare means that your child will be looked after for a number of hours without you needing to pay. Below are some examples that are not covered under this scheme.
- Meals
- Snacks
- nappies
- sun cream
- additional activities, such as trips etc.
You will need to discuss the arrangements for these things separately with your childcare provider.
Childcare providers
Childcare providers in the Manchester area.