From this morning working parents who earn up to £100,000 a year will be entitled to 30 hours free childcare a week during term time for children from the age of nine months until they start school.
The move is the final phase of biggest-ever expansion of publicly funded childcare support in England,however there are continuing concerns about the number of staff and places available for the scheme
Keir Starmer, the prime minister, said: “Launching 30 hours of free childcare is a promise made and a promise delivered. It’s a landmark moment for working families across the country, and a clear sign that our plan for change is not just words – it’s action.”
To qualify for the hours, the majority of parents must earn more than £9,518, external, but less than £100,000 per year.
Parents who do not work might still be eligible for 30 hours of free childcare if their partner works, or they receive some benefits – for example if they are on maternity or paternity leave.
For the working parent entitlement, you can apply from when your child is 23 weeks old but the funding starts at the beginning of the term after the child reaches nine months old.
