Start for Life Early Years – Best Start in Life

Help parents find out what childcare support they’re eligible for

From September 2025 and in addition to the support already available, eligible working parents will be able to access 30 hours of childcare per week, over 38 weeks of the year, starting from the term after their child turns 9 months old. This is all part of the government’s Plan for Change to give every child the best start in life by making high-quality early years education and childcare more affordable and accessible for families.

Benefits of childcare video

Check out this short YouTube video to see parents and practitioners at Rowland Hill Nursery share how early years education and childcare helps children grow in confidence, communication, and curiosity — https://tinyurl.com/3ut7343h

Are you already using 15 hours childcare for working families?

Parents don’t need to reapply for a new code. You simply continue to reconfirm details every 3 months on your GOV.UK account and the existing code will update automatically to enable you to take up 30 hours from September.  If you are already using your 15 hours of childcare and want to increase hours from September, you need to speak to their provider directly, as places may be limited.  If you are struggling to find a place, contact your local authority to find out what support and options are available.