Playgroup / Nursery funding in the UK help please?

Question

I took my 2 year old son to playgroup today and he loved it. He would start in September 2008 but he isnt 3 til January 2009, which (I think) means that he isn't funded until May 2009. Problem is it costs £7.50 per 2.5 hour session, he would go to 2 times a week, which is £15 per week until May, and that's 8/9 months of paying which we cant afford. My husband is on a low income, therefore we get Housing benefit to help towards our rent, Child and Working tax credit and Child Benefit.

Even with this help we wouldnt be able to afford it. I just wondered if there is anything we can do to get any help with money towards playgroup/nursery before he is 3? The playgroup said if he doesnt start in September he cant go! (and its by far the best in the area)

Answer 1

i don't think there is any extra help for childcare.

Answer 2

Depending on the date of his birthday he may be eligable for the funding in April-the summer term.

Unfortunately before then there isnt an amazing amount of help-if your tax credits and child benefits dont cover the cost then all you can really do is maybe speak to your health visitor or social care services to see if he is eligible to be a sponsored child-usually if there is a need for early entry (pre-3)eg: language needs, social needs etc.

There are parent and toddler/stay and plays around which range from FREE to a couple of quid-although you a have to stay it is a great educational experience to try before child starts at pre-school. http://www.childcarelink.gov.uk/index.as...

Did the preschool give you a reason for refsing entry in April? Because unless the are full already for that intake then they are not allowed to refuse entry (unless they have good reason). You should be able to choose when your child starts!

If you cant get into that preschool try looking on www.ofsted.gov.uk yo find other good preschools in your area. Some may be cheaper!

Answer 3

If your son was born between 1/1/06 and 31/08/06 and you are eligible for the benefits you describe you should be able to access 3 free 2.5 hour sessions per week from September 2008 for your son through the Support Scheme.  You will have to provide proof of your benefit for the Pre School to copy and send with their funding forms. Whoever does the administration for the funding (Nursery Grant and Support Scheme) in the Pre School should be able to help you with this.  If you have any difficulties contact your local County Council (if you look on their website most have a specific department for 0-5 childcare) for information.  Hope this helps.

Answer 4

I am guessing that you don't work so you cannot claim any childcare tax credits. First option is to investigate if your husband can get part of his salary paid as childcare vouchers. This is deducted before tax and NI so might lose maybe £20 per month but you get the nursery you want. If his company do not participate,then I advise you to find a college course,anything you so desire and enroll and college will pay for your childcare  costs. Good luck!!

Answer 5

you should be able to claim up to 90% of your child care costs back through tax credits, get onto the tax credits helpline and they will tell you what you are entitled to in addition to what you are receiving now

good child care is hard to find, so good luck