How do I know if I can get free Early Learning and Childcare?

Two year olds can have free Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) if their parent or carer receives any of the following:

• Income Support (IS)
• Job Seeker's Allowance (income based)
• Any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance
• Incapacity or Severe Disablement Allowance
• State Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit but not Working Tax Credit and your income's less than £16,105
• Both maximum Child Tax Credit and maximum Working Tax Credit and your income's less than £7,320
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• Universal Credit and your household take-home pay is £610 a month or less

Or a 2 year old who are:

• looked after
• under a Kinship Care Order
• living with a Parent Appointed Guardian      

How to Apply?

You can either:

Download an application form to complete from the Dumfries and Galloway Early Learning and Childcare website (www.dumgal.gov.uk/schools) or click the link below

Download Application Form Here

Email EarlyYearsSupport@dumgal.gov.uk or call 030 33 33 3000

Please return the completed form with a copy of your benefits letter or Court Order.

You will receive a reply within 21 days of the Council receiving your completed application. If you qualify, a list of ELC providers can be found on the Dumfries and Galloway Early Learning and Childcare website.

You will then need to visit your chosen provider to enrol your child. They will complete all the enrolment forms with you. You will need to take:

• Your confirmation letter
• Your child’s birth certificate
• Proof of address

What is my child entitled to?

Date of Child’s 2nd                     Birthday Start Date

1 March to 31 August                 August (autumn term) occuring in that year

1 September to 31 December    January (spring term) following their birthday

1 January to 29 February           March / April (summer term) following their birthday

Can I choose when my child attends ELC?

You can choose the days of the week and the number of hours, depending on availability at your chosen provider. Sessions are no shorter than 2½ hours, and no longer than 8 hours each day.

Why Early Learning and Childcare?

Early Learning and Childcare gives your wee one a real boost in confidence and independence, as well as building on their language and development. It’s a great way for them to make friends and play with lots of other children, while learning new things.

It can also give you the time to develop your skills, go back to work, get things done around the house, or even just to recharge your batteries. Parent Club

If you require further information, please email EarlyYearsSupport@dumgal.gov.uk