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Do the additional hours have to be taken during term time only?

No. Some providers are already offering the funded hours all year round. Others are considering doing this for the extended entitlements. An example of this would be if the hours were taken over 50 weeks the offer would be for around 22 hours per week. It is up to each individual provider to decide how they are going to offer the additional hours. Providers are able to decide which hours they accept funding for as long as the full entitlement is made available throughout the year.

Will parents need to pay anything for these hours?

Providers are able to charge for additional services. This may include providing hot food, nappies, wipes or additional hours outside of the funded ones. If providers choose to offer additional services they must clearly tell parents what they are being charged for and are not allowed to make it a condition of having a funded place. For example if a charge is made for a hot lunch, parents must be given the option of bringing a packed lunch free of charge.

Will the additional hours be made available for children with additional needs?

The government is committed to ensuring that children are able to access the provision that is right for them and their families. Additional funding has been made available for providers to ensure they are able to offer the additional hours if families request it.

What if I have remarried or have a new partner?

If you have remarried or are living with a new partner, you and your new partner must both be working in order for your child to be eligible.

What happens if we are on zero hours contracts?

As long as you meet the income criteria of 16 times the national minimum/living wage per week you will be deemed eligible by HMRC and will be able to access the extended entitlements.

If you have any further questions please contact the Early Years Team