There are three separate government-funded childcare schemes offering free childcare for children aged two, three and four. Each has different eligibility rules. (There are different rules in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland):
• 15 hours free childcare for 2-year-olds (eligibility is linked to receipt of certain low-income benefits);
• 30 hours free childcare for 3 & 4-year-olds (available for eligible families in work);
• Eligible working parents may also be able to claim tax free childcare.
You can find details of what is available and how to apply on the GOV.UK webpage: Help paying for childcare.
