2 year old funding
From April 2024 there will be two schemes for 2 year old funding - the existing benefits-related/child specific scheme and the working families scheme. You must ensure children are approved by one of these schemes (with evidence checked) before offering a funded place for up to 15 hours per week.
Existing scheme (benefits-related and child specific criteria)
Families apply to the Family Information Service in order to access this funding.
In order to offer 2 year old funded places to children approved via this scheme childcare providers must ensure they meet the requirements which are:
- You must be registered and approved by Solihull MBC to offer Early Education Funded places.
- You must have a current Ofsted grade of 'Good' or 'Outstanding'. If you have not had your first inspection then you can offer 2 year old funded places in the meantime.
To claim 2 year old funding for a child you must first ensure that the child has been approved by Solihull MBC. The parent should be able to show you their approval letter or you can contact the Family Information Service to check on 0800 389 8667. You can send the Family Information Service a list of your 2 year old funded children to check approval prior to the term starting if you are unsure.
Working Families
A new scheme starting in April 2024 is able to offer childcare for 2 year olds where their family meet criteria relating to being in employment. The new scheme is managed by the National Childcare Service.
To apply for this new childcare funding for working families must apply by 31 August 2024 for their eligibility code for Autumn 2024 term. Parents can apply to the National Childcare Service here. Parents can call them on 0300 123 4097 if they need support submitting your application.
If parents apply for the existing childcare funding where some 2 year olds can access this childcare through Solihull Council and the family do not meet the eligibility criteria their application will be refused and they will be asked to apply to the National Childcare Service instead if they meet the working families criteria.
In order to offer 2 year old funded places to children approved via this scheme childcare providers must ensure they meet the requirements which are:
- You must be registered and approved by Solihull MBC to offer Early Education Funded places.
- You must have a current Ofsted grade of 'Requires Improvement', 'Good' or 'Outstanding'. If you have not had your first inspection then you can offer 2 year old funded places in the meantime.