Unlocking Savings: A Closer Look at the Childcare Subsidy Scheme

New Horizons for Childcare Support

A £55 million package of measures has been introduced, extending the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme to cover school-aged children. This enhancement is expected to benefit a larger group of working parents, with an estimated 60% increase in the number of children eligible for discounts. Previously catering to 15,000 children, the scheme now aims to assist approximately 24,000. Working parents with school-age children can now enjoy a 15% subsidy on their childcare bills, up to a set limit. When combined with Tax Free Childcare, this subsidy could lead to a substantial 32% reduction in overall childcare expenses.

Impact on Family Budgets

Data from the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme spanning from September 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, reveals significant savings for eligible families. Monthly childcare costs, following application of the NICSS and TFC reductions, now average at just under £400 for part-time provision. Full-time childcare, amounting to £1,054 per month, has seen a reduction to around £739 post-subsidies. Notably, only a small fraction (2.3%) of children exceeded the NICSS subsidy cap during the mentioned period, indicating widespread benefit from the 15% reduction.

For more detailed insights into the scheme, interested individuals can visit the Early Years website.