Families in Derby have access to new and expanded support to help make childcare more affordable. From September 2025, working parents of children aged 9 months to 5 years will be entitled to 30 hours of funded childcare per week. In Derby, this offer is known as Take Off into Childcare.
This offer is being introduced to support working families with the cost of childcare and to give children the best start in life. Quality early education and care can make a big difference to a child’s development, especially in the first five years. By offering 30 funded hours, the aim is to help parents return to work or increase their working hours, while making sure children can access nurturing, stimulating environments that support their learning and wellbeing. You can find more details about the Take Off into Childcare offer on our webpage.
To start receiving funding in the Autumn term, parents must apply for their eligibility code by 31 August. Applications are open online or by calling 0300 1234 097.
If you’re not eligible for the working parents’ offer, you may still qualify for Flying Start funding. This is available for families with a two-year-old who turns two before 31 August. You can check your eligibility and apply online or by contacting Derby’s Family Information Service on 01332 640758.
Funded hours can be used flexibly depending on your childcare provider. You can choose to use the hours during term time (38 weeks) or spread them across the full year (up to 52 weeks) by using fewer hours per week.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
We’re proud to launch the Take Off into Childcare offer here in Derby. This is about making a real difference for families by supporting parents who want to work while ensuring that children can benefit from high-quality early learning opportunities. These early learning opportunities can be crucial in a child’s social, emotional and academic development and will give them a flying start to being school-ready. We want every child in Derby to have the best possible start in life, and this funding is a big step towards achieving that goal."
Don’t miss out on the support available. Use the childcare calculator at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk to find out what funding your family could receive. High-quality childcare supports children’s learning and development in their crucial early years, giving them the best possible start.
To find out what else is available in Derby, visit our Family Hub and Childcare webpage to learn more about Education opportunities, Derby Holiday and Activity Programme and much more.