The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is our pathway to truly accessible, affordable, quality childcare. From November 2019 it replaced all previous targeted childcare programmes with a single, streamlined and user-friendly Scheme to help parents meet the cost of quality childcare.
Supports are available for families with children aged between 24 weeks and 15 years who are attending any participating Tusla registered childcare service, including any Tusla registered childminder.
There is National Childcare Scheme Parent Call Centre. Parents can call 01 906 8530 for information or any queries they have on the National Childcare Scheme. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
To read more about the National Childcare Scheme and visit the website, just click the button below:
The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme is a universal support available to all families with children in the eligible age range, regardless of your family income. This is sometimes known as the free preschool years. This programme allows your child to attend a registered preschool session for 3 hours per day, 5 days a week, for 38 weeks per year. This is free at the point of service for parents. If your child attends a setting for part-time or full-time childcare then the subsidy of €64.50 will be discounted from your existing childcare bill per week.
Targeted supports were available for certain families where parents may be engaged in training, study or employment programmes. The TEC (Training and Employment Childcare) programmes reduce the cost of childcare for families who may be attending recognised training or study courses, on a community employment scheme, or returning to the workforce.
Community Childcare Subvention (CCS/CCSP) is available to families who signed up to the programme in September 2019, hold a medical card or GP card, and/or those in receipt of certain payments from the department of social protection.
The parents guide to childcare funding programmes may also be helpful to you.
If you would like some advice or to speak about your eligibility for childcare funding programmes you can always contact us by phone on 056-7752865.
