Working parents across England can now apply for up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare starting from September 2025 — a move expected to save families up to £7,500 per child annually.
Key Dates and Eligibility
From today, parents with children who will be at least 9 months old by 1 September can apply for the extended childcare support. This expansion follows the successful rollout of 15 free hours last year, which has already benefitted over 499,000 children.
Applications must be submitted by 31 August 2025 to begin using the 30 hours from September. Parents can apply via the official government childcare portal using their Government Gateway ID.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Be working at least 16 hours per week
- Have a child aged 9 months or older by 31 August
- Use an approved childcare provider (not informal carers like grandparents)
- Meet income and immigration status requirements
Even if you’re not eligible for 30 hours, most families qualify for 15 hours free from age 3, and some 2-year-olds may also be eligible based on benefits or special needs.
Government and Parent Reactions
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson praised the scheme as part of the government’s “Plan for Change”, stating:
“Making sure families are able to benefit from this rollout is a promise made and a promise kept.”
Meanwhile, Justine Roberts, CEO of Mumsnet, said:
“We’ve heard from countless women pushed out of work by unaffordable childcare. This expansion is a major step in tackling that.”
Early Impact and Working Hours Boost
According to HMRC, 1 in 5 parents earning between £20,000 and £40,000 reported increasing their working hours due to the 15-hour scheme launched in 2024. Of over 2,700 parents surveyed about the September rollout, more than half plan to increase their work hours alongside childcare use.
What Does the 30 Hours Cover?
- Up to 30 hours a week for 38 weeks a year
- Some providers allow spreading over more weeks at reduced daily hours
- Extras like meals, nappies or outings may still incur costs
What If I’m in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
Childcare schemes differ across the UK:
- Scotland’s system explained here
- Wales childcare system details
- Northern Ireland support outlined here
Additional Support: Tax-Free Childcare
Parents are also reminded they can claim up to £2,000 annually through Tax-Free Childcare, which helps cover costs outside of the funded hours.
How to Apply
- Visit the Childcare Service website
- Sign in with your Government Gateway ID
- Apply once your child is at least 23 weeks old
- Confirm eligibility with your childcare provider before September
