How can working parents get 30 hours of free childcare?
Summary
Starting September, working parents in England can get 30 hours of free childcare weekly for children aged nine months to four years. The government provides these hours during school term time, but parents still face costs for extra services. There is a concern about having enough staff and childcare places to meet demand.Key Facts
- Starting September, England offers 30 hours of free childcare for working parents with children aged nine months to four years.
- Parents need to earn between £9,518 and £100,000 annually to qualify for this program.
- In England, three and four-year-olds can receive 15 hours of free childcare, regardless of parental employment.
- Some parents might incur costs for extra services like meals or nappies, even with free hours.
- 1.7 million children were using free childcare hours in January 2025, a 33% rise in one year.
- The Department for Education says 35,000 new staff and 70,000 new places are needed by September 2025.
- The government increase in funding per childcare hour often does not cover the full costs for providers.
- An open letter from nurseries asked to delay new rules that require offering free extras without additional charges.
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