30 Hours, feeling the benefit…
There is no doubt that one of the highest costs to families of young children is childcare. In September 2017 the Government took a massive leap towards reducing that burden by increasing entitled hours for pre-school children. In September last year the Government increased the entitlement for children aged 3 and 4 from 15 hours a week to 30. The benefit, to provide working families with more flexible childcare during working hours, has meant an increase in the number of people able to return to work.
The benefit which is open to all parents of children aged 3 or 4 years, who work more than 16 hours a week and earn less than £100,000 per year, has seen many families increase the number of hours they use with their childcare provider. Children of non eligible families are still able to access the original offer of 15 hours a week.
Maximising the benefit
Flexibility and finding the right provider for your family is the key to this benefit. Many providers have altered their provision to fit in with requirements from their families. You can find out more about the 30 hours and how to apply by visiting the Government website www.childcarechoices.gov.uk You can also contact your local Family Information Service www.lancashire.gov.uk who can provide details on providers in your area who offer the entitlement or call in and see your local provider.
It’s great to see a benefit introduced that is of value to Lancashire Families.