Parents in Jersey who can't afford upfront nursery fees can now apply for charity support.
The government has extended free childcare to give 15 hours term-time to two and three year olds.
Jersey Childcare Trust has opened its funding programme for families who can't pay in advance and wait to be reimbursed.
'Every Step' has been designed to remove the obstacle of not being able to access the childcare, worth up to £6270 per year.
JCCT will make payments directly to childcare providers.
An online application form can be found at jcct.org.je.
The charity says applications will be reviewed within four weeks.
There are also five options for families experiencing hardship - though these require referral from a professional such as a health visitor or social worker.
Available Funding Options
Option 1 – Upfront payments for Government’s 15-hour childcare offer (self-referral allowed).
Option 2 – From a child’s 2nd birthday: 15 hours of childcare per week until the September of the school year they turn 3.
Option 3 – School holiday childcare for 2–3 year olds: 15 hours per week during school holidays.
Option 4 – School holiday childcare for 3–4 year olds: 30 hours per week during school holidays.
Option 5 – Primary-aged children: Up to 30 hours per week of school holiday childcare (up to 10 weeks per year).
Fiona Vacher, CEO at JCCT, said:
“Every child deserves the very best start in life. The Every Step Funding Programme is designed to support families when they need it most and to ensure no one misses out on the new childcare entitlement simply because they cannot pay upfront.
"Aligned closely with the Government’s offer and built through our extensive partnerships, the Programme complements existing support without duplicating any funding.
"We are here to support parents every step of the way.”
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