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.
Families receiving government support
Your 2-year-old can get funded early learning if you get any of the following benefits or you are working and on low income:
- 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 or less after tax, not including benefits payments)
- the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
If you are not in receipt of any of the above benefits you may still be eligible. See others ways you might be eligible.
You can apply direct with us to check your eligibility 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
Eligible working parents can now access 30 hours of funded childcare from the term after their child turns 9 months until they reach school age. You can apply from when your child is 23 weeks old and take up a place from the term after your child turns 9 months old. See our guide to 30 hours childcare for working families for more information.
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.