Working parents with children from 9 months old now eligible for increased support under expanded scheme starting this September
Families across Rochdale are being reminded to check whether they are eligible for 30 hours of free childcare, ahead of a major government rollout starting on 1 September.
The new support package significantly expands the current entitlement, with working parents now able to claim the benefit for children from the age of nine months until they start school.
Under the changes, the existing 15 hours of free childcare per week will double for eligible families, potentially saving thousands of pounds per year. The support is available to those earning up to £100,000 annually and can be used across either 38 school-term weeks or stretched over 52 weeks, depending on provider availability.
Households must apply and be confirmed as eligible by 31 August to benefit from the new entitlement from September.
Councillor Rachel Massey, portfolio holder for children’s services and education at Rochdale Borough Council, described the offer as “a vital lifeline of support” that many families have long been waiting for.
“The new entitlement provides a lifeline of support for thousands of families who already pay childcare fees and it will go a long way in reducing their monthly bills,” she said. “I strongly encourage all families to check their eligibility if they haven’t done so already.”
Families currently receiving 15 hours of free childcare are also reminded to reconfirm their childcare choice codes in preparation for the September expansion, providing their child is still eligible and their provider agrees to the new attendance pattern.
The reminder comes amid wider efforts across the borough to support early years development. Earlier this year, Rochdale received a £1.31 million boost from the government’s Start for Life programme. The funding is being used to strengthen Family Hubs and improve services for young children and their parents, including infant feeding, mental health support, and parenting skills.
To find out more or check eligibility, residents can visit: https://www.rochdale.gov.uk/childcare-children/free-childcare
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