Funded childcare deadline fast approaching

Parents and carers of three and four-year-olds have until 31 August to apply for funded childcare for the autumn term.

You can usually get 30 hours free childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are:

• In work
• On sick leave or annual leave
• On shared parental, maternity, paternity or adoption leave

You can also get 30 hours free childcare at the same time as claiming Universal Credit, tax credits, childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare.

Councillor Deborah Taylor,  Leicestershire County Council lead member for children and families, said: “We know that this scheme is a big help to many families; enabling some to return to work and significantly reducing existing childcare costs for others.

“We also know that using a childcare setting can have a positive impact on a child’s early learning and development.

“It’s worth checking your eligibility for the funding if you haven’t, it’s quick to do and may make a real difference to you and your family.”

To access the 30 hours funded childcare, people need to take an eligibility code, along with their national insurance number, child’s name and date of birth, to their childcare provider.

Leicestershire County Council is urging parents and carers to check their eligibility and apply now by visiting www.childcarechoices.gov.uk