Apply now for 30 hours of free childcare
14 May 2025
The County Council has announced the launch of the final phase of its childcare expansion initiative, part of the broader national programme to support working families.
Starting this September, working families in Northumberland with children aged 9 months to school age will be eligible for
30 hours of free childcare per week, an increase from the previous 15 hours. This expansion is designed to support children’s early education and help families manage work-life balance more effectively.
Early Years Project Development and Business Manager, Eve Black said:“We understand the importance of supporting families across Northumberland with funded childcare and we are very proud of our success to date in the rollout of offering 30 hours funded childcare for September 2025.
“The Early Years Team have worked very hard to ensure the national roll is a success across the county and we are delighted that so many families can benefit from this scheme. For those eligible, this scheme provides many benefits and we hope that parents entitled to the support will grasp this with both hands”.
The initiative is expected to save families in Northumberland up to
£7,500 per year, providing significant financial relief and making it easier for parents to remain in or return to the workforce.
Key Details:
- · Who is eligible? Working parents in Northumberland with children aged 9 months up to school age, during term time (38 weeks per year).
- · When does it start? From September 2025.
- · How to apply? Eligible families can apply online via GOV.UK.
- · Application Deadline: Apply by 31 August to start using your childcare hours from 1 September.
Parents currently accessing 15 hours of childcare for working families
do not need to reapply. Existing childcare codes will automatically update, allowing families to take advantage of the increased hours starting this September. Simply continue to reconfirm your details every three months via your GOV.UK account.
Steps to Apply:
- 1. Check your eligibility – Visit GOV.UK to see if you qualify.
- 2. Apply online – Get your childcare code to access your hours.
- 3. Apply before 31 August – Ensure your code is ready to use from the start of the new term.
- 4. Find a suitable childcare provider- https://northumberland.fsd.org.uk/kb5/northumberland/fsd/home.page
- 5. Speak with your childcare provider – Confirm they offer the expanded hours.
- 6. Keep your code updated – Reconfirm your details every three months; you will receive reminders when it’s time.
Northumberland County Council is committed to ensuring local families have access to quality early education and the financial support they need to thrive. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to provide quality early education for your child while balancing your career with confidence.
Apply now and secure your childcare code before the August deadline.
For more information, visit GOV.UK or contact Northumberland County Council's Family Information Service at FIS@northumberland.gov.uk or on
0345 600 6400. https://northumberland.fsd.org.uk/kb5/northumberland/fsd/home.page