Calling all childminders and early years providers, big changes are coming this September, and you’ll play a vital role in helping families access the support they’re entitled to.
With funding options increasing once again, it’s important to stay informed, prepared, and ready to guide parents through the process.
What's Happening
From September 2025, the government‘s funding offer to parents is expanding:
- Working parents of children from 9 months to 4 years will be able to access up to 30 funded hours a week
- More wraparound childcare places will be available in primary schools
- Some schools will also offer free breakfast clubs
- Families may also be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare or help through Universal Credit
These offers are designed to make childcare more accessible and flexible for families, and many will be coming to you with questions.
Why it Matters
As early years providers, you know the benefits of early years education and formal childcare in supporting children’s social, emotional and cognitive growth, and nurturing their overall development, as well as giving parents the choice to return to work, study or training.
With more families eligible for support, you’ll likely see increased demand for funded places, especially for babies and toddlers. Being ready to explain what’s available, and how you deliver it, will help families feel confident and supported, and help your setting run smoothly.
How to Prepare
Here’s how you can get ready for September:
- Review your offer
Decide how you’ll deliver funded hours, and what (if anything) you’ll charge for, such as meals, consumables, or additional hours. Make sure you’re still able to run your business sustainably whilst offering an increase in funded hours. - Get registered if needed
Make sure you’re signed up to offer Tax-Free Childcare if you haven’t already, and be ready to support families using Universal Credit for childcare. - Remind families to apply on time
Parents need to apply for their 30-hour code before 31 August to start in September. They must also reconfirm their eligibility every three months.
How to Help Parents
Parents may be unsure about what they’re eligible for or how to apply. You can help by:
- Directing them to Childcare Choices
www.childcarechoices.gov.uk is the official site for checking eligibility and applying for funding - Explaining how it works in your setting
Be clear about what’s covered by funded hours and what isn’t, especially when charging for extras such as consumables. - Encourage parents to apply in good time
Make sure you’re aware of your local authority’s funding deadlines, so you can advise parents to apply well in advance.
Useful Links to Share with Parents
Visit the Childcare Choices website for providers for more information.
