Childcare can help you balance family life if you are starting work, increasing your hours or returning to work after a break.
This page explains the support that may help you with childcare costs while you move into work or training.
Help with childcare when starting work
If you receive Universal Credit, you may be able to claim back up to 85 per cent of your childcare costs.
This can cover childcare when:
- Starting a new job
- Increasing your hours
- Taking up training
You usually claim childcare costs through your Universal Credit online account.
If you need help paying upfront childcare costs to start work, speak to your Work Coach at Jobcentre Plus, as additional support may be available.
Help if you already have childcare arranged
Parents who already use childcare may be able to reduce their costs by:
- Applying for Tax-Free Childcare
- Applying for 30 hours if they have a 3 or 4 year old
- Applying for 15 hours for children aged 9 months to 2 years (working families)
- Applying for 2-year-old funding (depending on eligibility)
More information on each of these options is included earlier in this guide.
Help if you are looking for work
If you are currently looking for work, Jobcentre Plus may be able to:
- Help with job searching
- Discuss training opportunities
- Advise about childcare support through Universal Credit
You can speak to your Work Coach to explore your childcare options and check what support you can get.
Finding suitable childcare when working shifts
If you work early mornings, late evenings or irregular hours, you may want to consider:
- Childminders who offer flexible hours
- Out of school clubs
- Nurseries with longer opening times
- Holiday schemes for school-aged children
You can search for childcare near you in the Trafford Directory.
For personalised advice, contact the Family Information Service by calling 0161 912 1053 or emailing fis@trafford.gov.uk.