Critical workers in Neath Port Talbot can now apply online to receive free childcare for pre-school children during the coronavirus outbreak.
The Welsh Government Coronavirus Childcare Assistance Scheme provides free childcare for children aged from 0 to 5 years of critical workers who are still required to attend their job during the coronavirus. Children who are considered vulnerable will also be eligible for the scheme.
The scheme will replace the Childcare Offer for Wales which provided eligible families with up to 30 hours of government funded early education and childcare for 3 and 4 year olds. This will be closed until further notice.
To be eligible for the replacement scheme, one parent must be classed as a critical worker. A list of professions classed as critical workers can be found on the Welsh Government website: https://gov.wales/coronavirus-key-critical-workers . Eligible vulnerable children include those with safeguarding needs and supported by social services.
The scheme will initially be available for a period of 3 months, at which time it will be reviewed. There is currently no limit on the number of childcare hours the scheme will fund.
The costs for those eligible for the scheme incurred on or after 1st April 2020 will be funded by the scheme, including backdating payments where appropriate. Childcare provider retention fees are not funded under the scheme.
Councillor Peter Rees, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Culture, said:
“I would like to thank the childcare providers in Neath Port Talbot who have stayed open to care for the children of critical workers.
“This scheme is vital to ensuring those parents who are required to work during the coronavirus outbreak are still able to do so.”
To apply for the scheme, visit: www.npt.gov.uk/childcarescheme . If you are not able to complete the application form online, contact 01639 873018.
More Information for how childcare providers can provide care under the new scheme can be found here: https://gov.wales/coronavirus-childcare-under-five-year-olds-providers-guidance
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