New free childcare service launched in York

childcareParents of toddlers in York are being urged to check out whether they’re eligible for free childcare.

From 1 September about 600 two-year-olds in York – double last year’s figure – will be eligible for up to 15 hours of free childcare a week at a playgroup, day nursery or with a childminder as part of a national initiative.

Parents who earn no more than £16,190 a year and receive Working Tax Credits, Child Tax Credit or Income Support could be eligible for a free childcare place.

Two-year-olds who are looked after by the council or have a Child Protection Plan automatically qualify for a place. And from 1 September children with special educational needs, those who have been adopted or who have a residency/special guardianship order will also qualify for a place.

The free places are available to children who are two-years-old and whose parents fulfil the criteria. The places can be taken up the term after the child’s second birthday.

Parents can apply on line at www.yor-ok.org.uk/childcare or to find out more call the Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or text ‘free place’ to 07624 802244.

The government was criticised yesterday by some childrens nurseries for trying to increase the amount of childcare provided without allocating sufficient funding

Free childcare places on offer in York

childcare 2

Parents of toddlers in York are being urged to check out whether they’re eligible for free childcare.

From 1 September over 600 two-year-olds in York – double last year’s figure – are eligible for up to 15 hours of free childcare a week at a playgroup, day nursery or with a childminder as part of a national initiative.

Parents, who earn no more than £16,190 a year and receive Working Tax Credits, Child Tax Credit or Income Support, could be eligible for a free childcare place. Two-year-olds, who are looked after by the council or have a Child Protection Plan, automatically qualify for a place.

From 1st September children with special educational needs, those who have been adopted or with a residency/special guardianship order will also qualify for a place.

The free places are available to children who are two years of age and whose parents fulfil the criteria. The places can be taken up the term after the child’s second birthday.

Parents can apply on line at www.yor-ok.org.uk/childcare or to find out more call the Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or text ‘’free place’ to 07624 802244.

5200 York residents now entitled to tax free childcare

Tax-free childcare to be increased to £2000 per child
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A major new childcare package to help millions of parents with the cost of living and give children the best possible start in life was unveiled by Nick Clegg today.

The new tax-free childcare scheme, announced by the Liberal Democrats last year, will be increased from £1,200 to £2,000 per child and the scheme will be brought forward to Autumn 2015.

This means that working parents earning at least £50 per week, will get 20% off the cost of childcare up to a limit of £10,000 for every child under the age of 12.

Those working part-time, on maternity leave or starting their own business will also be eligible for support with their childcare costs.

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