Starting this September, there will be important changes to childcare support. The government is increasing funded childcare to help working parents with children as young as nine months. This is part of a larger effort to make childcare more affordable and accessible, so parents can better manage work and family responsibilities.
From September 1, 2025, eligible families with children aged nine months or older can receive up to 30 hours of funded childcare each week. This could save your family as much as £7,500 a year and help you balance work and home life. You can use these hours over 38 weeks, or spread them across up to 52 weeks if you use fewer hours each week, depending on your provider.
Formal childcare can support your child’s social, emotional, and learning development, and help get them ready for school. These settings offer activities that may be harder to do at home. The government is also adding more Wraparound Childcare and free Breakfast Clubs to support parents of school-aged children.
Here are the main things to remember:
- You need to apply by August 31, 2025, to start using the funded hours in September. Try not to leave it until the last minute.
- First, check if you are eligible on the Childcare Choices website.
- Then, apply for a code. You will need your National Insurance number and some other details.
- Give the code to your chosen childcare provider to book your child’s place.
- Every three months, you will need to reconfirm your details on your account to keep getting the support.
If you already receive 15 hours of funded childcare, you don’t need a new code. Simply confirm your details, and your code will update automatically. It’s still a good idea to check with your provider to see if they have space for the extra hours.
For the latest information, visit the Childcare Choices website. You will find clear advice on who can get support, how to apply, and other help like Tax-Free Childcare and Universal Credit Childcare.