News and Insights

Investing in childcare key to addressing Northern Ireland’s high levels of economic inactivity

Policy Insight
1st February 2022

Childcare plays a vital role in supporting parents to work and to tackling economic inactivity.

Changes to the Healthy Start scheme – vouchers to be replaced by prepaid card

Policy Insight
1st February 2022

The Healthy Start scheme is changing – reapply online to ensure you continue to benefit.

How do Childcare Vouchers work?

Policy Insight
31st January 2022

Find out more about how Childcare Vouchers help working parents with registered childcare costs and save money for employers.

Education Minister Michelle McIlveen announces extension of Childcare Temporary Closure Fund until March 2022

Press Release
27th January 2022

Critical Covid-19 funding for childcare providers extended to cover 1 January to 31 March 2022.

Is free childcare available in Northern Ireland?

Policy Insight
24th January 2022

Find out more about the availability of free or funded childcare across the UK.

Help with upfront childcare costs in Northern Ireland through the Advisor Discretion Fund

Policy Insight
21st January 2022

Parents on Universal Credit or other income-based benefits can get support with upfront childcare costs to help them move into work or increase their hours.

Am I entitled to Universal Credit?

Policy Insight
17th January 2022

Find out more about who is eligible for Universal Credit.

All Party Group meeting emphasises vital role of early education and childcare in giving children the best start in life

Policy Insight
14th January 2022

Experts highlight importance of early education and childcare to ensure children can meet their full potential.

Stay eligible for Childcare Vouchers – don’t miss out by leaving it too late to re-join the scheme

Policy Insight
13th January 2022

Employees must make at least one payment into their Childcare Vouchers each 52 weeks.

What help can I get with my childcare costs?

Policy Insight
11th January 2022

Our Family Benefits Advice Service can advise you what financial support is available to help with your childcare costs.