Families on low incomes across Cheshire West and Chester are being urged not to miss out on free child care for their two-year-olds.

A scheme offering up to 15 hours of free child care a week is available to many more working families from this month.

The scheme, previously only open to people on certain benefits, has been extended to families with a household income of less than £16,190 a year who receive Working Tax Credits. They can choose to use their funding with a nursery, pre-school or childminder.

Cllr Mark Stocks (Con), the borough’s children and families chief, said: “This is great news for parents and carers on low incomes in Cheshire West. This extension to the scheme for two-year-olds means that hundreds more families in our borough will be eligible for help with child care costs.

“Families can get a lot out of child care. Not only does the child benefit from interacting with other children and learning through play, it frees up time for busy parents and carers, giving them the opportunity to work or study.

“Families who believe they may qualify for this new funding should contact the council as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out.”

The new funding, from the Government, is for up to 15 hours a week during term time, or fewer if used all year round. It is available in the term following a child’s second birthday.

Parents and carers are eligible if they receive any of these benefits:

  • Universal Credit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
  • Income-related employment and support allowance (if you are unable to work due to illness or disability)
  • The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit and earn £16,190 or less per year
  • Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • Working Tax Credit and earn £16,190 or less per year

or their child:

  • Receives Disability Living Allowance
  • Has a current Statement of Special Educational Need or an education, health and care plan; or
  • Has left care through special guardianship or an adoption or residence order.

Families can find out more information by contacting their local Children’s Centre or the council’s Family Information Service on 0800 0852 863 or email fis.west@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

Further details are available on the council’s website www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/2yearoldplaces.