Funded childcare places for two year-olds

Perth and Kinross Council has reminded parents and carers of eligible two year-olds in the region that they may be entitled to 1140 hours per year of funded free early learning and childcare (ELC).

The provision of early learning and childcare aims to support children’s development with opportunities to have fun and learn outside the home with experienced and trained staff, and to help assist parents looking to move into work, study or training.

ELC is available at a number of local authority-run nurseries across the region as well as some funded provider nurseries.

Two year- olds whose parents receive any of the following benefits may be eligible for a Strong Start place: Income Support (IS); Income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance ( IBJSA); any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance; Child Tax Credit (CTC), but not Working Tax Credit, when your income is less than £16,480; Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Working Tax Credit (WTC) if your income is less than £7320.

Asylum seekers receiving support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 as well parents or carers receiving Universal Credit where the monthly earned income does not exceed £610, Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance or State Pension Credit may also be eligible.

Two year-olds who are looked after under a Kinship Care order, or are looked after by a parent-appointed guardian may also be eligible for a place.

Additionally, children of care-experienced parents may now be eligible for Strong Start places.

Further information can be found on the website www.pkc.gov.uk.

Alternatively, call 01738 476200 or send an email to ELCApplications@pkc.gov.uk.

Advice is also available from allocated social workers.