Powys County Council has revealed that more than 1,000 local children may not be receiving free or reduced-cost childcare that they are entitled to. Using new data analytics tools, the council has identified households with children aged four and under who could claim childcare benefits but have not yet applied.
According to the council, families who take advantage of this support could save on childcare bills, gain access to free childcare hours, and even increase their household income by working more hours. Yet, despite these benefits, hundreds of eligible parents and guardians across Powys remain unaware of the schemes available to them.
Identifying Families Missing Out on Childcare Support
Powys County Council recently began using advanced data analytics software to pinpoint families most likely missing out on childcare help. Through this process, the council discovered:
- 48 households with children aged three to four years could be claiming support.
- 150 households with children aged two years are eligible for benefits.
- 218 households with children aged 18 months to two years may also qualify.
In total, more than 1,000 children across Powys might not be receiving the childcare benefits that are rightfully theirs. To address this, the council has started writing letters to these families, explaining available childcare cost support and offering direct help with the application process.
What Free Childcare Options Are Available in Powys?
The support system for families in Powys is designed to help reduce financial stress and provide children with a safe, nurturing start in life. Parents and guardians can benefit from several childcare schemes, depending on their circumstances:
| Childcare Scheme | Eligibility | Support Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Start | Families in Flying Start areas with children aged 2–3 years | 12.5 hours of free childcare per week, 39 weeks a year |
| Free Childcare for Working Parents | Working parents/guardians with children aged 3–4 years | Up to 30 hours of free childcare and early education per week, 48 weeks a year |
| Tax-Free Childcare | Parents/guardians with children aged 11 or under (disabled children up to 17) | Up to £2,000 per child per year (or £4,000 for disabled children) |
| Healthy Start Scheme | Expectant mothers and families with children under 4 | Vouchers to help with the cost of milk, fruit, vegetables, and healthy food |
These schemes can make a significant difference to family budgets while ensuring that children receive proper care and educational support in their early years.
Council Encouragement: “Check Your Eligibility”
Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for Future Generations, Councillor Sandra Davies, emphasized the importance of spreading awareness about these childcare opportunities.
She said:
“We know that finding the right help with childcare costs can be confusing, so we hope these letters will provide some clarity for Powys parents. We are encouraging all Powys parents and guardians to check if they are eligible—you might be pleasantly surprised by what is available!”
Her statement highlights how confusion and lack of awareness often prevent families from accessing benefits that could ease financial burdens.
Healthy Start Support for Children Under Four
In addition to childcare schemes, the council also found that 331 households in Powys who are eligible for Healthy Start support have not yet applied. This support, which currently benefits 768 children, provides help with the cost of milk, fruit, vegetables, and healthy food for young children and expectant mothers.
The Healthy Start scheme is especially important in helping families maintain good nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood—critical years for health and development.
Data Analytics Driving Childcare Support
The Powys County Council has invested in LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker), a data analytics tool designed to identify low-income families who may be struggling. By using this technology, the council can reach families who might not otherwise come forward for help.
This strategy is part of a broader effort to support residents facing financial challenges:
- In June, the council wrote to 900 households believed to be struggling with rising bills and living costs.
- Earlier this month, letters were sent to 700 residents who could be missing out on Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
These targeted letters are proving to be an effective way of connecting families with support schemes that they may not know about.
How Parents Can Apply for Childcare Support
Parents and guardians in Powys who think they may be eligible for childcare benefits are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply.
- Flying Start:
- Check your postcode to see if you live in a Flying Start area.
- Eligible families can get 12.5 hours of free childcare per week for 39 weeks a year.
- 30 Hours Free Childcare:
- Working parents of children aged 3–4 years may qualify for up to 30 hours per week for 48 weeks a year.
- More information: Get 30 Hours Free Childcare in Wales.
- Tax-Free Childcare:
- Available for children 11 or under, with up to £2,000 a year per child.
- For disabled children, support can rise to £4,000 a year.
- More details: Tax-Free Childcare UK.
- Healthy Start Scheme:
- Support for expectant mothers and children under four.
- Helps cover the cost of milk, fruit, vegetables, and essential foods.
- Apply here: Healthy Start NHS.
Where to Get Help With Applications
Powys parents and guardians who need guidance can contact the council directly:
- Childcare Queries:
- Phone: 01874 612419
- Email: powyschildcareteam@powys.gov.uk
- Money Advice for Council Tenants:
- Phone: 01597 827464
- Email: fsogroup@powys.gov.uk
- Website: Financial Support Officers Information
- Money Advice for Other Households:
- Phone: 01597 826618
- Email: wrteam@powys.gov.uk
- Website: Request Money Advice or Macmillan Support
These services are free and confidential, ensuring that all families can access the help they need without worry.
Also read: National Television Awards 2025 Winners: Complete List and Highlights
Why Childcare Support Matters for Families
Childcare support is more than just financial assistance—it plays a vital role in shaping children’s futures and supporting parents. Here are some key benefits:
- Reduced financial burden: Families save hundreds or even thousands of pounds every year.
- Work opportunities for parents: Free childcare allows parents to work more hours or take on better-paying jobs.
- Early education benefits: Structured childcare provides children with early learning opportunities that prepare them for school.
- Improved family well-being: Less stress about finances and childcare leads to healthier, happier families.
By helping families access affordable childcare, the council is not only improving children’s early years but also strengthening the local economy.
Also read: Zack Stephenson Chosen as Minnesota House Democrats’ New Leader After Melissa Hortman’s Tragic Death
Conclusion:
The discovery that more than 1,000 children in Powys may be missing out on free or reduced-cost childcare is a wake-up call for parents and guardians across the county. With multiple schemes available—from Flying Start to 30 Hours Free Childcare and the Healthy Start program—there are real opportunities for families to save money and ensure a better future for their children.
Powys County Council is urging all parents and guardians to check their eligibility as soon as possible. With the right childcare support, families can ease financial pressures, improve work opportunities, and give their children the best possible start in life.
