Single Parent FAQs: What childcare support is available for parents in Scotland? – Issue 49

The OPFS Childcare Connector Service assists single parents in navigating and accessing appropriate childcare options across Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

We provide guidance and support to help you find flexible and affordable childcare solutions that enable you to pursue career advancement, educational opportunities and employment.

In Scotland, most children aged 3 and 4 are entitled to 1,140 hours of funded early learning and childcare each year.

This usually works out at around 30 hours per week during term time, although the exact arrangements depend on your local council and childcare provider.

Some 2-year-olds may also be eligible for funded childcare if their parent receives certain benefits.

Your child may qualify if you receive benefits such as:

• Universal Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act

Eligibility can also apply if your child:

• Is looked after by the local authority
• Has a kinship care arrangement
• Has a parent who is care experienced

Your local council can confirm eligibility and help you apply.

If you are working and paying for childcare, there may be financial support available.

If you receive Universal Credit, you may be able to claim back up to 85% of registered childcare costs.

There is a monthly limit on how much can be reimbursed. You normally need to:

• Pay the childcare costs first
• Report the payment to Universal Credit

The money is then reimbursed as part of your Universal Credit payment.

Tax-Free Childcare can help working parents with the cost of childcare.

For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2, up to a set limit each year.

You can usually apply if you:

• Are working
• Earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours at minimum wage
• Earn below the upper income limit

This scheme can be used for children up to age 11 (or 16 if the child is disabled).

To qualify for financial help, childcare normally needs to be registered and approved.

This can include:

• Nurseries
• Childminders
• After-school clubs
• Holiday childcare clubs

Your childcare provider can confirm whether they are registered.

If you are studying, there may be additional help available through your college or university.

Some education providers offer:

• Discretionary childcare funds
• Student support funding

It is worth speaking with your student support team to see what may be available.

You can contact your local council for information about funded childcare places and local providers.

You can also find information and guidance through the Scottish Government childcare webpages.

If you would like to talk through your options, OPFS advisers can help you understand what support may be available based on your circumstances.