Frequently asked questions for childcare providers

These frequently asked questions will advise providers on how they can offer early education funded (EEF) places. Providers should also refer to the current Provider Agreement 2025 and Addendum.

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What if a family wants to start a funded place when they are already in their grace period?

Children would not be eligible for funding through the Working Parent Entitlements at a Provider if the family are already in the grace period. This includes the following scenarios:

  • Where a Parent falls into their grace period before the child starts their place/ their funded hours.
  • Where a Parent falls into their grace period whilst their child is attending a Provider for their entitlement, and the parent then moves the child to a different provider whilst in their grace period.

These scenarios are also applicable when a Provider submits a claim for a child who was eligible at the time, but the child entered the grace period later and before starting their funded hours.

In exceptional circumstances, The Council has the discretion to extend the “grace period” for a short time, i.e.

  • if the provider closes or if the local authority terminates its funding arrangements with the provider
  • the parent(s) moves home as a result of domestic abuse or any other emergency situation.

Providers should advise the EEF Finance team in such cases.