Schools, education and childcare Funded childcare

Entitlements

Working parents may be able to get 15 hours per week of free childcare for a child 9 months to 2 years old.

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.

 

 

 

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