Early Learning and Childcare Provision

Eligible Two Year Olds

Two Year Olds

Children aged 2 years old could be eligible for funded early learning and childcare if:

  • their parent or carer is in receipt of certain benefits (listed below); or
  • they are care experienced:
    • looked after by a local council;
    • in kinship care; or
    • have been appointed a guardian.

Parents and carers who have experience of care can also access funded early learning and childcare for 2 year olds.

Eligible benefits are:

  • Income support
  • Jobseeker's Allowance (income-based)
  • Employment Support Allowance (income-based)
  • Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance
  • State Pension Credit
  • Support under Part VI of the immigration and Asylum Act 1999

If you receive Tax Credits or Universal Credit, then you can earn a certain amount of money and still be eligible. These income thresholds change annually. From April 2023, if you are on Child Tax Credit:

  • but not Working Tax Credit, then your earnings can be £18,725 a year or less
  • and Working Tax Credit, then your earnings can be £8,717 a year or less

If you are on Universal Credit, then your household take-home pay can be £726 a month or less.

When you complete the below form you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility.

Early Learning and Childcare Shetland 2024 - 2025 - Eligible Two Year Old

We will provide all eligible two year olds an early learning and childcare place from the day after their second birthday.