From 15 March 2023, newly registered childminders have been eligible to receive a start-up grant. This grant is still available, so don’t forget to apply for it, within two months of being registered. You have until 31 March 2025 to complete your registration in order to apply.

The scheme:

• operates in England only
• is only open to new childminders (these are individuals who have not been previously registered with Ofsted or a childminder agency within 12 months prior to applying for the grant)

Newly registered childminders will receive:

• £600 for those registering with Ofsted
• £1200 for those registering with a childminder agency

Childminder agency childminders will receive their £1200 in 2 instalments, with a 6-month limit on the second instalment. They’ll get:

• the first £600 following registration
• the second £600 once they’re operational and caring for at least one child

To apply, you will need:

• your contact details
• your National Insurance number
• details of your registered work address (if different from your home address)
• proof of your registered work address, such as a utility bill or a letter from HMRC
• to know your local authority area
• your childminder registration number and registration date
• details of the bank account you want the grant paying into
• a copy of a bank statement showing your current address

Most childminders will find out if they can receive a grant within 2 weeks of submitting their application.