Childcare and family support

Check your benefits eligibility

We’ve outlined some of the most relevant benefits and financial support options in this section, but it’s important to make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. You can use our Benefits Calculator to do a full review and see what you might be missing out on.

Financial assistance for childcare

Tax-free childcare

The Tax-Free Childcare Support Scheme is a great way to get financial help with childcare costs. Under this scheme, parents can get up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 per year) for each child under the age of 12 (or under 17 if they have a disability). This helps to cover the cost of childcare services, and the government will pay 20% of your childcare costs (equivalent to the tax you would have paid if you were working full-time).

• For every £8 you pay into your childcare account, the government adds £2 (up to the maximum amount). This money can be used for a wide range of approved childcare providers including nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs and holiday clubs.
• To set up an account, visit the government’s Childcare Service portal, where you’ll need to provide some information about your children and childcare providers.
• Use the government’s eligibility checker to see if you qualify.

Universal Credit for Childcare

If you’re eligible for Universal Credit, you can claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs. The maximum reimbursement is £646 per month for one child or £1,108 for two or more children.

Free Childcare Hours

The government provides various free childcare hours based on age and circumstances:

• 15 hours free childcare for working parents with a child aged nine months and up.
• Free childcare for two-year-olds (depending on circumstances).
• 15 hours free childcare for three and four-year-olds (up to 570 free hours per year).
• 30 hours free childcare for three and four-year-olds, depending on your income, work status and other factors.

Other support for parents and carers

Child Benefit

You can claim Child Benefit if you’re responsible for a child under 16, or under 20 if they’re in approved education or training. It’s paid every four weeks.

Sure Start Maternity Grant

If you’re expecting a child, you may be eligible for a Sure Start Maternity Grant – a one-off payment of £500 to help with costs.

Help for parents/carers of disabled children

• Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is available for children under 16 with severe disabilities or mobility issues.
• A Carer’s Assessment can be requested to determine the support available to make life easier for you as a carer. This is separate from the Needs Assessment, which may apply to the person you care for.

Financial support for grandparents

Grandparents who are caring for grandchildren under 12 may be eligible for National Insurance credits. These credits can help boost their income in retirement, ensuring that the work they do as carers is recognised and supported.