New 30 hours funded childcare for 9-month-olds: a helping hand for families from the start

The early days of parenthood bring joy, change, and lots of decisions. From pushing through sleepless nights to first smiles, it’s a whirlwind of emotions, and every family’s journey is unique. As the government rolls out the new 30 hours funded childcare expansion, now including children aged 9 months, many families have been weighing up what’s best for their family. At Grandir UK, we understand that decisions around childcare are personal, and we’re here to offer you some clarity and support.

This blog breaks down the new 30-hour funded childcare expansion and what it means for eligible working parents, while also offering reassurance about what Early Years care with a childcare provider really looks like. Whether you’re exploring your childcare options, returning to work, or simply curious, we’re here to help you make informed choices in a way that feels right for your family.

What’s changing with funded childcare?

On May 12, the government announced that eligible working families with children aged 9 months will be able to apply for 30 hours of funded childcare – a significant step up from the previous 15-hour offer. With this change, families can save up to a significant £7,500 a year per child, helping to ease the financial pressure of childcare costs and lifting the burden somewhat for parents who need, or want, to return to work or increase their working hours with greater peace of mind.

Please note: the funded hours per week are only provided for 38 weeks of the year, to align with term time. You can read more about it here.

The childcare expansion is being introduced in stages. Here’s how the rollout has progressed so far and what’s to come:

• Since April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds have been able to apply for 15 hours of funded childcare per week.
• From September 2024, this same 15-hour per week offer was extended to parents of children aged 9 months to 23 months, supporting families at an even earlier stage of their child’s Early Years journey.
• From September 2025, 30-hour funded childcare will be made available to eligible working families with children aged 9 months up to school age, completing the full expansion.

Applications for 30 hour funded childcare are now open for eligible parents whose children will be 9 months old by 1 September 2025. To check your eligibility and begin the application process, visit the official GOV.UK website.

A thoughtful choice, not an obligation

We’re completely aware that not everyone will see these funding changes as a positive thing. Some parents might feel that 9 months is simply too young for their child to enter the Early Years system or perhaps feel pressured to return to work earlier than planned. These feelings are valid, and we completely understand.

We want to reassure you that the 30-hour funded childcare expansion is not about replacing family time or forcing choices – it’s about giving families who need the support more options. It provides meaningful and practical support for those who might be balancing work, study or other responsibilities, and need some extra support. If you’re a family who isn’t ready to take that step yet, that’s perfectly okay too. You know what’s best for your child.

Nurseries – a place of comfort and connection

For families who choose to seek childcare support, we want you to know what nurseries like ours are really about. Nursery isn’t about formal learning or rushing children into routines – they have plenty of time for that as they grow. For our youngest children, especially those under one, nursery is a gentle, safe and nurturing space designed to feel like a natural extension of home.

With familiar faces who are genuinely invested in each child, vital early learning support, soft surroundings, and opportunities for calm sensory exploration, we create an environment where children feel safe, loved, and at ease.

We work closely with families to build trust and understanding throughout children’s time with us, not just at the beginning. By taking the time to learn your child’s home routines, preferences, and comfort cues, we help ensure transitions feel smooth and every child feels seen, secure, and supported.

When done right, nursery becomes more than just a childcare solution – it becomes a second home. A space where children thrive, and families feel confident and supported every step of the way.

You’re not alone – we’re here to help

Whatever your circumstances are, we want you to know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re ready to explore hours of funded childcare or you simply want to discuss what’s available, our Parent Engagement team are here to listen and support you without judgment.

Grandir UK also accepts other government-funded childcare options such as Tax-Free childcare, Universal Credit for childcare, and other forms of funded early education.

Get in touch now or find one of our nurseries nearest to you to find out more.