What you can get
If you're eligible, you can receive up to 15 hours of free childcare per week. You can use these hours during school term time (38 weeks per year), or stretch them over the full year (up to 52 weeks) by using fewer hours per week.
Learn more at the Best Start in life parent hub and speak to your chosen provider about their funded places and admissions criteria.
Eligibility
Non-UK citizens who cannot claim benefits may still be eligible and can check on GOV,UK. Email us at 2yroldfunding@portsmouthcc.gov.uk for help.
When to apply
| When your child is 2 years old | When you can get your hours | When to apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1 September to 31 December | Term starting on or after 1 January | The term before 1 January |
| 1 January to 31 March | Term starting on or after 1 April | The term before 1 April |
| 1 April to 31 August | Term starting on or after 1 September | The term before 1 September |
How to apply
You can apply for 2 year old funding online.
Once your application has been approved, you will get a code that tells you the earliest date your child can start their funded place. Show this code to your childcare provider when arranging your child's early education place.
You do not need to re-apply or reconfirm your details once you receive the code.
If your circumstances change, for example, you return to work or your household income increases, the funding will continue until your child is eligible for the 3 and 4 year-old funding.
Contact us
For further support with your application, please email 2yroldfunding@portsmouthcc.gov.uk. You can also find childcare in Portsmouth.
Find out about free childcare for other age groups and family types.