Childcare

You can choose childcare from a variety of options including childminders, nurseries, before and after school clubs, nannies, and au pairs.

Childcare can often be harder for military families due to shift work and last-minute duties.

The first port of call for Childcare should be the Childcare Choices website. This provides further information and guidance on all available government childcare schemes.

Wraparound Childcare Scheme (WAC)

WAC is available to Regular Service Personnel, including those who are serving overseas. The scheme is designed to assist working families with the cost of before and after school childcare. You may be able to claim up to 20 hours of WAC funding per week for each child during term time. For any queries, contact your unit HR team or admin office.

Free Childcare

In England, working parents with children aged 3 to 4 years old are entitled to 30 hours free childcare. The childcare must be with an approved childcare provider and stops when your child starts in reception class.

You may also be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare (TFC).

Local Authority Support

Your local council provides advice on the financial support available for childcare.

Finding Childcare

Your local council can assist with finding a local childcare provider. Visit the West Northants website if you live in Northampton, Daventry, or South Northants. Visit the North Northants website if you live in Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough, or East Northamptonshire.

The Association of Nanny Agencies Ltd. is a not-for-profit organisation that can help you search for a nanny.

Coram Family and Childcare provide information on all matters of childcare, including independent information on funding. They particularly focus on helping those who face disadvantage or multiple challenges.

The British Au Pair Agency Association are the only recognised trade association for the industry and can assist you with finding an au pair.