Childcare funding options
For working families with children under 12 (17 if disabled); an extra £2 for every £8 you pay in.
For working families claiming Universal Credit with children under 16; 85% of childcare.
For working families with children under 16 (under 17 if disabled); 70% of childcare costs.
For families with 2 year old children; 15 hours of funded childcare for 38 weeks.
For families with 3 and 4 year old children; 15 hours of funded childcare for 38 weeks.
Working families with 3 and 4 year old children; 30 hours of funded childcare for 38 weeks.
For parents at sixth form or in full-time higher or further education.
Use the GOV.UK childcare calculator to work out if you're eligible for support.
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
Contact us if you need advice on finding childcare or funding:
Family Information Service - Dorset Council
Email: familyinfo@dorsetcouncil.gov.ukTel: 01305 221066
Full contact details