19 December 2025
“I am pleased to announce more details on the introduction of a new Childcare Funding
Scheme for children aged 2 to 3 years old, commencing on 1 January 2026. This scheme
represents a significant step forward in supporting families and investing in the early
development of our youngest children.
“Parents can find details of the scheme on a new webpage: Funding for Early Childhood Education and Childcare.
“In total families can claim up to £6,270 per school year for childcare costs. Payments will be
made in arrears, in up to three instalments, upon proof of purchase from a registered provider.
This initiative delivers on a key commitment in the Common Strategic Policy, CSP, 2024–2026
and is supported by the Government Plans 2025–2028 and 2026–2029, adopted by the States
Assembly on 12 December 2025.
“It reflects our determination to provide children with the best possible start in life and to
address affordability, which over 90% of parents surveyed identified as their top concern. This
universal approach means there are no working, income, or residency conditions, ensuring that
every eligible family can benefit.
“We anticipate that approximately 700 families will benefit in 2026, with resource implications
of up to £4.5 million in 2026 and £5.3 million in 2027, as approved in the Government Plan.
Officers will now work closely with registered childcare providers and families to ensure the
scheme is live from January, with applications opening in February and first payments made by
April 2026.
“This investment is about more than affordability it is about supporting child development,
enabling parents to work or study, and strengthening the foundations for lifelong learning. It is a
clear demonstration of our commitment to families and to the future of our Island.
“I want to thank the Jersey Child Care Trust for their continued support for families and for
working alongside Government to ensure that parents who need help can access it quickly and
easily. Their role in supporting parents who cannot pay upfront is invaluable and ensures that
no family is left behind.”
Fiona Vacher, CEO of Jersey Child Care Trust said: "This new funding scheme will make a real
difference to families across Jersey. By reducing the financial barriers to childcare, parents can
focus on work, study, and family life, while children benefit from high-quality education and
care. JCCT is proud to work in partnership with the Government of Jersey to support those who
need additional help to access this funding.”
Key Details of the New Scheme
- In total families can claim up to £6,270 per school year for childcare costs
- Funding applies to registered childcare providers, including private nurseries and
childminders
- Parents will pay for childcare upfront and then apply for reimbursement with a payment
receipt
- Additional support is available for families on Income Support, and the JCCT can assist those unable to pay in advance
- Applications will open online in February 2026
- Eligibility: Your child must have turned 3 after 1 September 2025.
This new scheme complements existing support for:
- Children aged 3 to 4 years old: Up to 30 free nursery hours per week during term time
through the NEF
- Children aged 2 to 3 with developmental needs: Up to 12 free hours per week under the
Jersey Child Care Trust's Best Start Plus Nursery Funding Programme
The online application form will be available from February 2026.
gov.je