How to apply
You can apply online by creating your own Citizen Portal account:
It takes just a few minutes and allows you to instantly check eligibility, track your application and contact our team. You can create your account with a valid email address and your National Insurance (or NASS) number.
You can also visit a Staffordshire Children's Centre or a main Library where staff will be able to assist with your application. Please ensure you take your National Insurance (or NASS) number or required documentation with you (as above *).
What you get
You could get:
- 15 hours a week of free childcare
- For 38 weeks a year (that’s up to 570 hours total)
- Some places let you spread the hours over more weeks
Who can get it?
Your child might be able to get free childcare if you get support like:
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit (if your household income is £15,400 or less after tax)
- State Pension Credit (guaranteed part)
- Working Tax Credit (4-week run-on)
Or if your child:
- Gets Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Is looked after by the council
- Has left care through adoption or special guardianship
- Has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
You might also be able to get help if:
- You’re waiting for a decision on an asylum claim
- You’ve been refused asylum
- You have the right to live in the UK but can’t claim benefits
- Your child is classed as ‘in need’ by the council
- You’re the main carer of a British citizen (Zambrano Carer)
You’ll need to show proof when you apply.
When can my child start?
Your child can start the term after they turn 2:
- Born between 1 Jan – 31 Mar - Start in April
- Born between 1 Apr – 31 Aug - Start in September
- Born between 1 Sep – 31 Dec - Start in January
You can apply from the term your child turns 2.