Have you planned your summer c H ildcare?

Don’t

There is help available with the cost of registered childcare, which can include some summer schemes, as well as year round providers such as registered childminders, out of school clubs and day nurseries. For example, parents may use Universal Credit, TaxFree Childcare, Childcare Vouchers or Tax Credits to help meet their bills.

Ahead of the summer now is a good time to make sure your family is receiving all the financial support you are entitled to.

Increased support with childcare costs through Universal Credit

In the Spring budget the Chancellor announced an increase in support for childcare costs through Universal Credit that applies for families across the UK from summer 2023.

The maximum support that can be received towards childcare costs from this summer onwards will be £951 per month for one child and £1630 for two or more children. This represents an increase of 47% over the current maximum support.

Finding suitable childcare

The Family Support NI website www. familysupportni.gov.uk is a key resource for families looking for registered childcare and includes a search function for all registered childcare providers across Northern Ireland.

Local councils and the Education Authority may also provide additional information over the coming months regarding the summer schemes that they are running for school age children.

Alternative working arrangements

In order to manage holiday childcare parents often need to request additional time off, paid or unpaid, or request to change their working pattern. Flexible working arrangements can take various forms for example part-time working, compressed hours (working your agreed only working. Discuss these options with your employer to try and find an arrangement that suits you both.

Further information

To find out more about

Why install decking?

your summer childcare, contact our Family Benefits Advice Service for free, impartial and confidential advice on Freephone 0800 028 3008 or email hello@ employersforchildcare.org.

Installing decking in your garden can be a great way to create a space for relaxing and entertaining. Decking can either be freestanding or attached to your house, and it can be made of timber or composite materials.

It enhances the appearance of your garden Decking can add a dimension and a focal point to your garden, making it more attractive and inviting. You can choose from different designs, shapes and styles of decking, depending on your personal preference and the size and shape of your garden.

You can also customise your decking with features such as railings, stairs, lighting, planters and furniture. You can create a theme or a mood for your decking, such as modern, rustic or tropical. Having a decked area can increase the value of your home

Decking can increase the value of your home by adding extra living space and improving the curb appeal. According to Checkatrade, decking can add up to 2% to the value of your home, depending on the quality and size of the decking.

Decking can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers, as it shows that you have invested in your property and cared for your garden. It can encourage you to live healthier!

Decking can enhance healthy living by encouraging you to spend more time outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

Decking can also help you to relax and reduce stress, as it provides a comfortable and peaceful place to unwind.

It can also provide a place for exercise and recreation, as you can use it for activities such as yoga, meditation, gardening or playing games.

Decking creates additional space

Decking can create additional space in your garden by utilising unused or uneven areas. You can use your decking for different purposes, such as dining, lounging, working or hosting parties.

You can also use your decking all year round, by adding features such as heaters, fire pits or awnings.

You can extend your living space and make the most of your garden.

It is easy to install and maintain

Decking is easy to install and maintain, as long as you plan and prepare well.

You can install decking yourself if you are a competent DIYer, or hire a professional to do it for you. You should use quality materials and tools for your decking project, such as structural treated timber or composite boards, screws designed for decking and wood preservative. You should also maintain your decking regularly by cleaning it with a brush or a pressure washer, applying a sealant or stain every few years and repairing any damage or wear.