The Jersey Child Care Trust is delighted to announce the launch of its new Every Step Funding Programme, created to ensure that families can fully benefit from the recently introduced Government-funded childcare for 2-3 year olds.
From January 2026, all children aged 2-3 are entitled to claim upto £6,270 per full school year towards childcare costs. This equates to around 15 hours per week of term-time childcare. While this support is a positive step for families, some parents have told us that paying childcare fees upfront – before Government funding is reimbursed – can be a real barrier.
The new Every Step Funding Programme has been designed to remove that obstacle.
Helping families access childcare without upfront costs
Under the new programme, JCCT can make upfront payments directly to childcare providers on behalf of families who cannot afford to pay fees in advance. This ensures that children can take up their funded hours straight away, without parents needing to cover initial costs.
Parents can apply directly themselves for this upfront payment option by completing the Every Step Funding Programme online form.
Applications are reviewed within 4 weeks.
Additional flexible funding options
Alongside upfront payments, the Every Step Funding Programme offers extra childcare support for families experiencing financial hardship. These options require a referral from a professional who knows the family (for example, a health visitor, social worker, teacher or support worker):
Available funding options
- Option 1 – Upfront payments for Government’s 15-hour childcare offer (self-referral allowed)
- Option 2 – From a child’s 2nd birthday: 15 hours of childcare per week until the September of the school year they turn 3.
- Option 3 – School holiday childcare for 2-3 year olds: 15 hours per week during school holidays
- Option 4 – School holiday childcare for 3-4 year olds: 30 hours per week during school holidays
- Option 5 – Primary-aged children: Up to 30 hours per week of school holiday childcare (up to 10 weeks per year).
These options ensure that children can continue to learn, play, and thrive; even when family circumstances are challenging.
Supporting families every step of the way
Fiona Vacher, CEO at JCCT, said:
“Every child deserves the very best start in life. The Every Step Funding Programme is designed to support families when they need it most and to ensure no one misses out on the new childcare entitlement simply because they cannot afford to pay upfront. Aligned closely with the Government’s offer and built through our extensive partnerships, the Programme complements existing support without duplicating any funding. We are here to support parents every step of the way.”
How to apply
- Parents applying for upfront payments (Option 1): Complete the self-referral form for Every Step Funding Programme
- Professionals referring families for options 2-5: Complete the professional referral form for Every Step Funding Programme
JCCT welcomes contact from anyone who would like support in understanding or explaining the new programme including invites to meet parents at existing Parent and Toddler Groups for examples. To arrange a meeting or ask questions, please email sarah@jcct.org.je.
