Childcare funding options - Dorset Council

Childcare calculator

See what childcare funding you may be eligible for.
Funded childcare for under 2's

Check eligibility and apply for funded childcare for under 2's in Dorset (ages 9 to 23 months).
Funded childcare for 2 year olds

Check eligibility and apply for funded childcare or early education for 2 year olds in Dorset.
Funded childcare for 3 and 4 year olds

All 3 and 4 year olds are eligible for 15 hours funded childcare, working families can apply for up to 30 hours funded childcare. Find out more.

Wraparound childcare - before and after school childcare

Childcare that ‘wraps around’ the conventional school day, from 8am to 6pm for primary aged school children.
Universal credit for children under under 16

You may be able to claim back 85% of your childcare costs if you are eligible for universal credit.
Tax-free childcare for under 12's (or under 17 if they have a disability)

Information on tax-free childcare for working parents.
Tax credits for childcare

Information about claiming tax credits for childcare.

Support while you study

For parents at sixth form or in full-time higher or further education, find out what help you can get whilst you study.

Are you a grandparent or family member who provides childcare for a child under 12 years old?

If you're a grandparent or relative who has taken early retirement to look after a relative's child, you could get National Insurance (NI) credits to protect your pension. Find out more about Specified Adult Childcare credits.

Share your views about childcare

Let us know what you think about childcare provision in Dorset. We want to understand your childcare needs as parents, foster carers and family members.

Complete our childcare provision survey to let us know about your needs and experiences of childcare.

Contact us

Family Information Service - Dorset Council

Email: familyinfo@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Tel: 01305 221066
Full contact details

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