Providers sign an agreement with their local authority, that outlines what providers must advise parents from the outset on how funded hours are supplied, this shoud inlclude the days and times parents can expect to receive funded hours.
Providers must also inform parents clearly about any additional charges parents will incur on non-funded hours, meals, consumables and extra services when parent decide to access them. There should be no hidden charges.
Where applicable, providers when asked by parents, should supply information on the charges that are voluntary (or opt in) for parents, or where there might other or cheaper alternatives i.e. children taking a packed lunched.
By January 2026, all childcare providers must have their charges readily available to parents, preferably on their website.