The UK government has officially confirmed that its Free Holiday Childcare scheme will be extended in 2025, bringing relief to thousands of working families across the country. For the first time, eligibility will not be limited to those receiving Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits, opening the door for many more parents to receive vital childcare support during school holidays.
This move comes as part of a broader effort to ease the financial burden on households facing the rising cost of living, especially those with young children. Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, when it starts, how to apply, and what this means for your family.
What Is Free Holiday Childcare?
The Free Holiday Childcare scheme is a government-funded programme designed to provide parents with financial assistance for childcare during school holidays. It aims to support working families, helping them continue their employment without the high costs of seasonal childcare.
Initially, the scheme was only accessible to families receiving Universal Credit, Tax Credits, or other DWP benefits. However, with the 2025 extension, the government has decided to expand the eligibility criteria to include a broader range of households, even if they’re not on benefits.
What’s New in the 2025 Expansion?
In previous years, the scheme was limited and available only to low-income families, particularly those receiving support through the DWP. But in a major policy shift, the 2025 version of the scheme removes the requirement for parents to be on benefits.
Now, even if you’re not receiving Universal Credit or Tax Credits, you may still be able to access free childcare during school breaks — a significant development for middle-income families who previously did not qualify.
The expansion means more parents can balance work and home life without being financially penalised during the holidays.
Who Is Eligible in 2025?
The updated eligibility rules for 2025 are more inclusive. You may now qualify if:
- You are a UK resident with children aged 5–14 (up to 16 for children with special educational needs)
- You or your partner is working (employed or self-employed)
- You are not receiving any DWP-related benefits, but your household income falls within the government’s updated income thresholds
- Your child attends a school that participates in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme or equivalent schemes run by local authorities
This widened eligibility is expected to help over 200,000 additional families who were previously excluded.
How Many Hours Are Covered?
Under the 2025 update, parents can receive up to 4 hours of free childcare per day, for up to 5 days a week, during all official school holiday periods including Easter, summer, and half-term breaks.
Some local councils may even extend hours based on regional funding and demand, so parents are encouraged to check with their local authority for specific details.
Do You Need to Apply for It?
Yes. While eligibility is more flexible, you will still need to apply through your local authority or via the government’s official online portal.
Applications typically open 6–8 weeks before the school holiday starts. You’ll need:
- Proof of your identity and address
- Employment details (e.g., payslip or self-employment evidence)
- Your child’s school name and registration number
- Any information about your child’s medical or educational needs (if applicable)
It’s important to apply early, as slots are limited and some regions operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where Will the Childcare Be Offered?
The childcare will primarily be provided at:
- Registered local childminders and nurseries
- Community centres
- School campuses
- Sports and activity clubs participating in the scheme
Each region in the UK will maintain a list of approved childcare providers that meet the scheme’s safety and quality standards.
Parents will be able to choose from various providers based on location, schedule, and activity type, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
Is Food Still Included?
Yes, the scheme continues to include nutritious meals for participating children. This includes:
- A healthy lunch
- Snacks during breaks
- Dietary-specific options based on allergies or religious preferences
This initiative not only supports childcare needs but also tackles food insecurity among children, particularly during long school breaks when free school meals aren’t available.
Why Was This Change Made?
The government’s decision to open the scheme to non-DWP recipients is rooted in increasing pressure from parents, advocacy groups, and think tanks. Many argued that the previous structure excluded working families who were just above the benefit threshold but still struggling with the rising costs of childcare.
By eliminating the DWP requirement, the government acknowledges that childcare is a universal need, not just one for those officially deemed low-income.
What Are the Regional Differences?
While the scheme is UK-wide, there may be differences in:
- The start date of applications
- The number of funded hours per child
- The type of activities offered
For example:
- England: Most councils are participating through the expanded HAF programme
- Scotland: Additional funding is being distributed under the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) scheme
- Wales and Northern Ireland: New pilot programmes are being introduced in select areas
Parents are encouraged to visit their local council’s website to find tailored guidance based on their postcode.
Can It Be Combined With Other Childcare Help?
Yes, in some cases you can combine this scheme with other forms of support such as:
- Tax-Free Childcare
- Employer Childcare Vouchers
- 30 Hours Free Childcare for 3–4 Year Olds
However, not all benefits can be stacked. You’ll need to check the official eligibility rules to avoid losing one form of support when applying for another.
The government’s official childcare calculator can help families determine the best combination of support for their unique circumstances.
When Will It Start?
The expanded Free Holiday Childcare scheme will start from Spring 2025, just before the Easter holidays.
Here’s a tentative timeline:
- Applications Open: February 2025
- First Wave of Use: Easter Holidays (April 2025)
- Full Summer Rollout: July–August 2025
- Ongoing Support: Autumn half-term and Winter Break 2025
More exact dates will be released on gov.uk and local council portals.
What Parents Are Saying
Many parents across the UK have welcomed the change, calling it a “game-changer” for working families. Social media is full of positive reactions:
“Finally! We don’t claim any benefits but still find holiday childcare impossible. This is the help we needed!” – Rachel M., Leeds
“I’ve had to reduce my working hours every summer just to look after my two kids. This support will let me keep my job.” – Liam J., Birmingham
Feedback from previous pilot schemes showed increased parental employment, reduced child food insecurity, and improved social skills among children.
Government’s Official Statement
A spokesperson for the Department for Education said:
“We recognise that all families, regardless of benefit status, deserve access to affordable childcare. By expanding eligibility, we’re ensuring that more children benefit from enriching activities and safe supervision during the holidays.”
The move is part of the UK’s long-term strategy to support working families, reduce child poverty, and improve educational outcomes.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 expansion of the Free Holiday Childcare scheme is a significant step forward in supporting families who fall outside the traditional DWP safety net. Whether you’re a working parent without benefits or simply someone seeking safe, structured care for your children during the holidays, this programme could offer the relief you’ve been waiting for.
Families are encouraged to check eligibility early, gather documents, and apply as soon as the application window opens to secure a place.
This change proves that the government is slowly recognising the evolving needs of modern UK households – and taking action to address them.