Parents are given childcare funding reminder

WORKING parents of three and four-year-olds are encouraged to apply now for 30 hours funded childcare for the autumn term to avoid missing out.

Changes have been made to the eligibility criteria for tax-free childcare and 30 hours free childcare during the coronavirus pandemic.

Parents and carers may still be able to claim if they are on furlough, not able to work or are working less, are self-employed, are a critical worker or if their working pattern has changed due to the pandemic.

The deadline for applications is August 31 and you can check your eligibility, and apply, by visiting www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

Coun Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families, said: “We want this additional funded childcare to benefit as many parents and carers across Leicestershire as possible.

“It is the reason why it is important for them to check the eligibility, especially as there has been recent changes due to coronavirus.

“If parents have not applied already, I would urge them to do so immediately and before the application deadline.”

Parents must have an ‘individual’ government gateway account set up ready. Once the application is made, you can check progress in your account.

To access the 30 hours funded childcare, you will receive an eligibility code which you can take to your childcare provider along with your national insurance number, child’s name and date of birth so the code can be validated.