Overview

• Eligible working parents in England must apply by 31 August to receive up to 30 hours a week of funded childcare from September for children aged nine months and over.
• HMRC says more than 509,000 parents have already extended Child Benefit for 16–19 year-olds in full-time education, with payments stopping in September if renewals are not completed by Sunday.
• Child Benefit is worth £26.05 a week for the eldest or only child and £17.25 for each additional child, and claiming can protect National Insurance credits for a state pension.
• Tax‑Free Childcare offers up to £2,000 per child each year, or £4,000 for disabled children, with parents urged to act by 31 August to receive top-ups for September use.
• The government confirmed £600 million to extend the Holiday Activities and Food programme for three years, with the DfE saying the council-run support can save families hundreds of pounds annually.