Who gets 15 hours of free childcare and how do I apply?
Who gets 15 hours of free childcare and how do I apply?
Many families in the UK are eligible for 15 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 3 and 4 years old. This benefit is provided by the government to help working families and those on certain benefits access affordable childcare options.
To qualify for this free childcare, your child must be 3 or 4 years old and you must be receiving one of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit (with an annual household income of less than £15,400 after tax)
- Tax Credits and you earn less than £16,190 before tax
If you meet these criteria, you can apply for the 15 hours of free childcare through your local council. You will need to provide proof of your eligibility and your child’s age. Once approved, you can choose a registered childcare provider to use your free hours.
It’s important to note that this free childcare entitlement only covers 38 weeks per year, so you may need to pay for additional childcare during school holidays.
Overall, the 15 hours of free childcare can be a great help to families who meet the eligibility criteria, making it easier for parents to work or attend training while their child is in a safe and supportive environment.
