cost of living
Published 28 Aug 2025
2 min read
Deadline to apply for 30 hours of free childcare fast approaching
Families are being urged to apply for free childcare support before the deadline this weekend.
Published: 28 August 2025
The government is offering 30 hours a week of childcare during term time to working parents of children from nine months to three years old in England.
Ministers believe this could help families save up to £7,500 a year and free up money that can be better spent on quality family time.
But the deadline to apply is on Sunday 31 August.
This deadline applies if your child turns nine months between 1 April and 31 August
“The offer is just around the corner, and so I’m urging every eligible parent who wants it, to take it up,” said education secretary Bridget Phillipson.
“Whether it’s to save up to £7,500 a year, support parents to get back to work or reduce the pressure on grandparents who so often have to step in, the benefits are widespread.”
You can apply for free childcare here.
Holiday Activities and Food programme extended
The government is also investing £600 million to extend the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme for another three years.
Funded by the government and run by local councils, it gives eligible families access to:
- free childcare
- healthy meals
- fun, enriching activities
The programme is primarily for children who:
- get benefits-related free school meals
- are in reception to year 11
- live or go to school in the area where it’s offered
Councils can use up to 15% of their budget for kids who don’t meet the usual criteria but could still benefit.
This initiative helps parents save an estimated £300 a year.
How you can apply for HAF
Visit your local council’s website and search for HAF programme.
Check your eligibility and, if you qualify, you’ll receive a voucher or code via text, email, or letter.
Use the code to reserve a space online or contact the club directly.
Spots fill up fast, so act early.
James has spent almost 20 years writing news articles, guides and features, with a strong focus on the legal and financial services sectors.
Published: 28 August 2025
The information in this post was correct at the time of publishing. Please check when it was written, as information can go out of date over time.
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