Funded childcare for 2 year olds
1. Overview
From the term after your child turns two, you might be able to claim 15 hours a week early education and childcare up to a maximum of 570 hours per year, funded by the government. How you apply will depend on whether you are in receipt of certain benefits or are a working family.
Families receiving government support
If you receive any of the following benefits or you are working and on low income as detailed below:
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit - if you and your partner are on a low income from work (usually a combined income of less than £15,400 a year after tax)
- guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit (or both), AND your household income is £16,190 a year or less before tax
you can apply for an eligibility check with us to take up a 15 hours' funded place for your two-year old. See how to apply to submit your eligibility check.
If you’re a non-UK citizen who cannot claim benefits please see no recourse to public funds for more information on how to apply.
Working families
From April 2024 eligible working families can get 15 hours funded childcare. You, and any partner must expect to earn:
- on average at least £167 per week from 16 hours a week (equal to 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage) and
- Less than £100,000 adjusted net income per year.
If you fall into this category, get further details and claim your childcare entitlement code on the Childcare Choices website.
To access the 15 hours childcare support for working parents from 1 April 2024, you must apply for a code by 31 March 2024. We recommend you apply between the middle of January and end of February 2024 to get your code in time.
Don't miss out
Join the thousands of parents across Lancashire who already have a funded 2-year-old place at a local nursery or childminder. Attending the fun sessions at a nursery, playgroup or childminder, can help your child:
- Make new friends and build their confidence
- Improve their speaking and listening skills
- Learn and develop through play
- Get ready for starting school
Family are the most important people in a child’s early life, but your local nursery staff or childminder can offer great support and will be happy to assist you with your child’s early learning and development. They are qualified, caring professionals and their tips on the things that you can do at home can help your child come on in leaps and bounds. You can also find some useful, example activities in our learning at home resources.
When your child is using their funded hours, this is also a chance for you to take some time for yourself. You might want to start a part-time job, do some training or study, go to the gym, spend the time with your younger children or relax with family or friends. Whatever you choose to do, this is your time too!
Your child’s funded place will help them to play, learn and grow so read on to find out more.
Funded places for 2-year-olds
Play, learn and grow with a local nursery or childminder.
Hear from our Lancashire providers about the benefits of a 2-year-old place.