In Nottingham, as of September 2025, working parents can access 30 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 9 months to 4 years, expanding from the current 15 hours for children aged 9 months to 2 years.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the childcare entitlement information:
Current situation (up to March 2025):
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15 hours free childcare:
Working parents in England can get 15 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 9 months to 2 years.
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15 hours free childcare:
All 3 and 4-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early education and childcare per week.
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30 hours free childcare:
Working parents can combine the 15 hours for 9 months to 2 year olds with the 15 hours for 3 and 4 year olds to get 30 hours in the term following the child's 3rd birthday.
Changes from September 2025:
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30 hours free childcare:
Working parents will be able to claim 30 hours of childcare per week for children aged 9 months to 4 years.
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Eligibility:
To be eligible, you (and your partner if you have one) must have a National Insurance number and meet certain income criteria.
How to apply:
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For 3 and 4 year olds:
You don't need to apply, your childcare provider will do this for you automatically.
You'll need to show them a copy of your child's birth certificate and sign a declaration form.
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For 2 year olds:
If you get certain benefits, you may be able to apply for free childcare for your 2-year-old.
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For 30 hours:
You'll need to fill out an application form online and receive a unique code from HMRC via the Government's Online Childcare Service.
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Other relevant information:
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Tax-Free Childcare:
You can get Tax-Free Childcare at the same time as 15 or 30 hours free childcare if you're eligible for both.
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Universal Credit:
You can claim up to 85% of eligible childcare costs for children under the age of 17 if you and any partner are working or due to start work, subject to a maximum of £951 per month for one child or £1630 per month for 2 or more children.
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Contact:
For more information or if you have any problems with the application process, you can contact the HMRC Childcare Service helpline on
0300 123 4097.
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Early Years team:
If you need to contact the Council's Early Years team, you can email earlychildhoodservices@nottscc.gov.uk
