Funded Entitlements
Working parents may be able to get 15 hours per week of funded childcare for a child 9 months to 4 years old.
- 15 hours Working parent entitlement if your child's age is from the term after they turn 9 months until they start school - Check eligibility explained on the government website
You may be able to get funded childcare if you have a 2-year-old and get certain benefits.
- 15 hours for parents of 2-year-olds receiving some additional forms of government support if your child's age is from the term after they turn 2-years-old - Check eligibility explained on the government website
All 3 and 4 year olds in England are also entitled to 15 hours of funded early education or childcare per week.
- 15 hours for Universal entitlement for 3 and 4-year-olds if your child's age is from the term after they turn 3-years old until they start school - All 3 and 4-year-olds are eligible for the universal element of the entitlement
Funding entitlement start dates
When your child turns the relevant age:
- 1 January to 31 March they can get their hours from - Term starting on or after 1 April
- 1 April to 31 August they can get their hours from - Term starting on or after 1 September
- 1 April to 31 August they can get their hours from - Term starting on or after 1 January
When and How to claim
For the working parent entitlement for children aged 9 months to 4 years you can apply from when your child is 23 weeks old.
Apply for funded 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 a 2-year 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.
For further information on 'Help paying for childcare' visit the Childcare Choices homepage