Eligible parents can claim a 20% discount through the Tax-Free Childcare scheme or receive support through Universal Credit Childcare
Families in Hounslow are being encouraged to check their eligibility for enhanced childcare support as part of a major government initiative to help working parents balance their careers and home life.
To qualify, families must expect to earn a minimum amount before tax over the next three months: £2,380 for those aged 21 or older, £1,788 for those aged 18 to 20, and £1,331 for those under 18 or apprentices. Households can earn up to £100,000 in adjusted net income annually to remain eligible. Some residents may also qualify if they are not working but their partner is, or if they receive certain benefits such as Carer’s Allowance or Incapacity Benefit.
Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Education, Children, Skills and Employment, welcomed the expanded support, saying: “The early years of a child’s life have a great impact on their future wellbeing. This support will play a crucial role in allowing parents to balance their work and home lives while ensuring the best possible start for their children.”
She continued: “I strongly encourage all families to check their eligibility and take full advantage of the childcare assistance available to them. Families can also reach out to Work Hounslow, the Skills and Employment team, to learn about local live job opportunities, including flexible work and help with childcare.” The Council is also supporting the government’s efforts to increase the availability of wraparound childcare for primary school-aged children, creating more childcare places to support families before and after school hours.
In addition to the new offer, families may benefit from further financial assistance. Eligible parents can claim a 20% discount through the Tax-Free Childcare scheme or receive support through Universal Credit Childcare. Both can be used alongside the 15 or 30 hours of government-funded childcare, including wraparound care.
Parents of children aged 9 months to 2 years who meet eligibility criteria can access 15 hours of funded childcare per week. Families with 2-year-olds receiving certain forms of government support may also be entitled to the same. For children aged 3 to 4, eligible working parents can claim 30 hours of funded childcare each week during term time.
Hounslow Council is urging parents and carers to apply for childcare support at the right time to ensure they do not miss out.
Families seeking more information can visit www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. They can also contact the Hounslow Family Information Service on 020 8583 3470 or email fis@hounslow.gov.uk for guidance on available childcare options.
