School and nursery closures: your rights
After the announcement that schools and nurseries will be closed from the end of this week except for key workers’ children, we outline the main issues that you are asking about.
Latest updates:
Coronavirus: your questions answered
Coronavirus childcare information
Things are changing rapidly with the coronavirus pandemic and it can be hard to keep up. School and nursery closures have brought a slew of questions about fees, tax credits and the like.
Information is still being updated (see links above for most recent updates), but here are some of the answers to your questions:
Do we need to keep paying nursery fees in the event of closure?
Parents will need to talk to their providers about whether they have to keep paying fees. Check your contract – it may state that there will be no refunds if the provider gas to close for reasons beyond its control.
However, some may offer refunds – even if there is this proviso, given the exceptional circumstances – or not require fees if they are covered by their insurance or if government chooses to reimburse them. Childcare campaigners are asking for a rescue package, given many are already in challenging financial circumstances.
If your child is sick and can’t go to their childminder or you cannot get there you will similarly need to check your contract to see if you need to keep paying. However, if it is a registered childcare provider and you are still paying for it you should continue to receive any support you might be claiming – eg tax credits, vouchers, tax-free childcare or Universal Credit.
If your own work circumstances change, you will need to update this and it may mean you are eligible for other forms of support.
Are childminders and nannies included in the shutdown?
Registered childminders are included. Nannies on Ofsted’s voluntary register aren’t. Reports suggest people are offering unregistered childminding services, but this is going against Government advice on social isolation and could be in breach of safeguarding laws.
Do I have to pay nursery and childminding fees if I have to keep my children at home?
The Government says that registered childcare providers who are forced to close will be given financial support and compensation. More detail on the financial support available to all nurseries, pre-schools and childminders affected will be announced soon.
Am I legally entitled to time off work or to work from home if my kids are at home?
Legally, your employer does not have to pay you for any time off for childcare or let you work from home. You will have to negotiate this. Again, check your contract and staff handbook.
There is a lot of pressure on employers to enable homeworking – if at all possible – at this time. It is in their interests too to keep their business running.
Employees have the right to take a reasonable amount of time off work to help someone who depends on them in an unexpected event, though you don’t have a legal right to be paid for this time. Some employers will pay, however, so check your contract and workplace policy. You may also be able to book the time off as holiday. Speak to your employer directly to find out your options. For more info, see the ACAS website.
If your pay reduces, you may be entitled to Universal Credit – see citizens advice coronavirus – what it means to you. You can also call the Employers for Childcare freephone advice line on 0800 028 3008 for a personalised benefits calculation.
Will I be entitled to pay if I am ill or need to self isolate?
Your right to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) depend on your employment status and earnings.
If you’re an employee and earn at least £118 a week, you will be able to get £94.25 per week for up to 28 weeks from the first day you are off sick if it is related to coronavirus.
Some employers have their own more generous sick pay schemes. It is worth checking your contract, staff handbook or with your employer.
If you’re not eligible for SSP, you may be eligible for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you’re ill and Universal Credit for costs like housing.
Will Universal Credit be stopped if I miss appointments due to self-isolation?
If you can’t make an appointment at your Jobs and Benefits office due to coronavirus you need to let your local benefits office know and you will continue to receive benefits.
Anyone self-isolating who is self-employed, or who works on a short-term contract, can apply for Universal Credit or new style Contributory Employment and Support Allowance during a period of self-isolation.
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Comments [177]
Janet says:
Hi. My child gets 30 hrs free childcare and she shares it between Nursery and a child minder that pick her up for 2hors stay mon to thurs and 6hours on Fridays. However, the childminder hasn’t done any care responsibilities since school term as she decided to travel over the fes started this year because she decided to travel during
the festive season and now she is self isolating. My daughter has been going to Nursery as I am a key worker and I have been picking her up. Do I need to inform the council that they shouldn’t pay the childminder the other 15hrs as she hasn’t offered the service.
Mandy Garner says:
Is this only a temporary situation – ie she is quarantining for two weeks? It is a good idea to check with your local authority, but to mention if it is a temporary situation.
Nina Naj says:
Hi
I am teacher who is currently working from home due to the lockdown. I usually use a childminder for 3 days of the week to look after my toddler and pick my primary school aged daughter after school.
During the last lockdown I continued to make payments for children from March- until the end of August but did not use the service. This was very expensive as I was working at home as well looking after and teaching my own children. However, since I had a written contact with the childminder I had no issue with making the payments.
I have only started to use childcare again in September when schools were reopened. We have not officially signed a new contract yet and we were planning to at the start of this year. However, the lockdown has interrupted us.
My key question is this: Do I have to pay childminding fees if I have to keep my children at home? I really would like to know my rights on this and if you can sign post me to further information and guidance I would appreciate it.
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, It would depend on your contract with your childminder so do check it. You could also try to negotiate something with your childminder, but they may be struggling financially too. There was an investigation after the first lockdown by the Competition and Markets Authority with regard to refunds if childcare was not possible – see https://www.workingmums.co.uk/parents-should-not-have-to-pay-fees-for-childcare-which-is-not-provided/. This time round, though, in England, childcare is allowed to open. You could lobby your local MP and ask your local authority for advice.
laura donnelly says:
Hello my 17 month old son has been contacted by test and protect Scotland to self isolate 4 times since October . After the 3rd time he only got 4 days at nursery before he was contacted again . Nursery are expecting full fees despite all contacts coming from nursery . I have asked about retainer fee or discounted rate to cover their business outlays but got no response . Any advice appreciated . Thanks
Mandy Garner says:
Early on in the pandemic there was an inquiry about paying for nurseries during the first lockdown [when nurseries were closed] by the Competition and Markets Authority [https://www.workingmums.co.uk/parents-should-not-have-to-pay-fees-for-childcare-which-is-not-provided/]. Now the nurseries can open, but the isolation issue is causing some parents problems, especially if they are losing paid work as a result and cannot work with their child present and/or their employer won’t furlough them. You could contact your local MP about this. It is an issue we are hearing about more and more. Does your nursery have anything in their policy about what happens in these circumstances? See https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nursery-and-early-years-sector-covid-19-restrictions-and-consumer-law/nursery-and-early-years-sector-covid-19-restrictions-and-consumer-law-advice
Becky says:
Hi, my son’s nursery has recently released a new Parent Agreement stating that full nursery fees will still have to be paid even if your child has to self isolate due to Covid-19 symptoms. I can understand this but with winter approaching, children are inevitably going to cough or sneeze at nursery.
It also states if the nursery has to close due to a second lockdown, 75% of the full nursery fee will be charged. It seems like the nursery is protecting and insuring its own income rather than considering the financial burden on parents who will have to take time off work or make alternative childcare arrangements.
My question as a parent is – do we legally have to sign this agreement to continue at the nursery? It would be good to know if others have had similar experiences. Thanks.
Mandy Garner says:
Nurseries have a right to insist on parents signing agreements to receive services. You could attempt to negotiate with them about it, explaining your concerns. You could also seek more information from https://www.ndna.org.uk/. According to the World Health Organisation, sneezing is not associated with Covid. More information on Covid symptoms can be found here.
Jade says:
Hi, my child stopped going to nursery For a short while as I was off work (not forloughed( I didn’t have to pay fees), but now he’s been back for around 4 weeks, I’ve Recently received a text from HMRC saying:
HMRC: If your child hasn’t returned to childcare by 8 September we’ll no longer assist with childcare fees. Webchat or call tax credit helpline now to discuss.
Would this be an automated text?
Or do you think they have been intouch with the nursery?
anyone else get help with nursery fees and received this text message?
Thankyou
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, It sounds like an automated text. You could just get in touch before 8th September to let them know your child is back at nursery.
Sabina says:
Hello,
I am a single parent of a 2 year old and also a key worker working on the frontline.
My daughter qualified for 15 hours government funded childcare DURING TERM TIME this year and the nursery was receiving the government funding for her directly.
On the first day of lockdown they advised all parents they would be closing- even for keyworkers.
They have re opened and my daughter is now back.
As they were closed for 12 weeks but still receiving the 15 hours a week funding from the government for my daughter, I emailed them asking if I would be reimbursed these hours and if I could use the 12 weeks they received for her whilst they were closed over the summer to which they simply said no.
I feel this is unfair, it was their choice to close the nursery for key workers and they still received funding for my daughter the whole of lockdown without providing the service and refusing to reimburse me them hours now they are back open.
Do I have a case to complain?
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, Could you write to [email protected] with more information? The guidance has been changing the whole time and initially nurseries were able to retain the early years funding [see https://www.gov.uk/government/news/free-childcare-offers-to-continue-during-coronavirus-closures], but for the summer term the guidance changed to enable local authorities to let the money follow the child [ie if their nursery was closed and they had to attend another the early years funding would follow them to the new nursery] – see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/use-of-free-early-education-entitlements-funding-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/use-of-free-early-education-entitlements-funding-during-coronavirus-covid-19. Funding only covers term time.
Louise says:
Hi
During the coronavirus pandemic we were unable to send our children to their childminder as we were not keyworkers and were furloughed. This was effective from the end of March.
We spoke with our childminder and agreed we would pay a reduced payment of £243 per month to secure our children’s places and enable her business to stay afloat during these difficult times as we wished to continue placing our children in her care as soon as we were able. We paid this amount for the months of April to July. Myself and my husband were furloughed until Aug.
On Monday 20th July I met with our childminder to discuss commencement of care for our children and she informed me she was no longer continuing with the business with immediate effect.
We have since been in touch with her to request reimbursement for the money we paid to her which was to act as a retainer payment for future childcare which we will now not be receiving and we feel we have paid for services not received. She is disputing owing us a refund claiming she cannot and will not pay us back. We have suggested she set up a payment scheme with us to pay back monies owed in manageable instalments but we have been unable to come to an agreement.
Please could anyone advise?
Mandy Garner says:
Hi Louise, Contact PACEY who may be able to advise on this – https://www.pacey.org.uk/. In the agreement to pay a retainer, was anything agreed or set out in writing about this kind of scenario?
Genna Leigh says:
Hi
I got furloughed from my work in March so my son was unable to go to the childminders as I was not a key worker..
My childminder recieved some information that I would still have to claim childcare costs from universal credit to keep his place open.
It is now June and universal credit have now informed me I should not of claimed for childcare still? Is this correct even though I have followed the information given to me by my childminder.
They are now looking into how much they have over payed me by which now means I will be in debt through no fault of mine!
Help please!
Mandy Garner says:
Please contact http://www.turn2us.org.uk who are experts in the benefits system.
Leoni says:
Hi, I am in the same situation as you and now owe £2000 back to tax credits from what I payed the nursery! Did you get anything sorted?
Laura says:
Hi I have given 2 weeks notice to my sons nursery which is currently closed. As he is 3 his place is funded by government and I am aware that this funding is still being paid to nurseries however they are charging me for the 2 weeks notice. Is this right?
Mandy Garner says:
What does your contract with the nursery say about notice? There is an investigation going on currently about this issue – https://www.workingmums.co.uk/consumer-rights-body-to-investigate-childcare-providers-over-refund-policies/
Chemistvva says:
Hi, My partner and myself have been confirmed we will be working during the rest of the year from home. We decided to take out of the nursery our girls (they have not been at the nursery since the end of March). This month I have been charged 60% of the fees and apparently I’m going to be charged next month again. I understand there is the notice of leaving period that needs to be honoured, but after they have already spent 2 months at home already, pay for another 2 months of the nursery without them setting a foot into it, feels a little bit inadequate, I would love to hear your thoughts on this, and see if you have any suggestions for us to stop paying almost a grand a month, just to keep our girls at home. Thanks
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, This has been an issue for many parents and it would depend on your contract. The consumer rights watchdog is investigating at the moment and you can find out more details here – https://www.workingmums.co.uk/consumer-rights-body-to-investigate-childcare-providers-over-refund-policies/.
Arina says:
HI I am a key worker and my husband is going to be furloughed and the childminder wants to charge us a 80% fee even tho my child is going to be at home. Is she within her right to continue to charge us 80%
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, what does your contract say – presumably the childminder is open, but you don’t wish to use it because your husband is at home? There is an investigation going on into childcare providers who are continuing to charge despite no service being provided [https://www.workingmums.co.uk/consumer-rights-body-to-investigate-childcare-providers-over-refund-policies/], but the childminder could argue that keeping your place open means they are unable to earn in the meantime.
Jaime whitworth says:
Hiyah, i recently had to self isolate due to actually having covid and as i’m a single parent my children couldn’t attend the childminder, however she had charged me in full for the full time i had covid even though she didnt provide childcare, is this allowed? It feels really unfair, i’m a key worker for the nhs so obviously it was alot of hours she charged me for that she didnt actually have them
Mandy Garner says:
It would depend on the terms of your contract. If your children are ill or cannot attend, does it state that you still have to pay for your place?
Amanda says:
Hi,
I’m entitled to 30hours free childcare for my 3 year old, he was due to take this at our local primary schools nursery, however they have said they are not opening until September. I called a local private nursery and they have said they can’t give us the 30free hours as they would have needed to submit the code for the summer term by 1st April. Does this mean we’ve totally missed out on our 30 free hours entitlement?
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, Where do you live? We know that the early years funding has stopped for new joiners this term in Wales to fund key worker childcare – see https://www.workingmums.co.uk/welsh-government-to-fund-free-childcare-for-key-workers/. This should only be temporary.
Stephanie Mitchell says:
Hi! My daughter’s nursery froze the fees from April as they shut down. They’ve informed me they will be reopening in July but I have decided to pull her from this nursery and sent them an email to give 4 weeks notice as they require. They are refusing to accept my notice and saying I must pay 1 month’s fees in lieu of notice if I want her to leave, and this will also cause me to lose my deposit. Doesn’t make sense to me as notice has been given and will be observed even though she cannot attend the currently closed nursery. What are my rights? Thank you!
Mandy Garner says:
You should contact the Competition and Markets Authority who are investigating this kind of thing – https://www.workingmums.co.uk/consumer-rights-body-to-investigate-childcare-providers-over-refund-policies/
Christine Armstrong says:
My daughter & son in law still work and I normally look after my grand daughter for 2.5 days a week. I am 60 and in good health (so not in the over 70 or vulnerable group) would I still be able to look after her?
Mandy Garner says:
Are your daughter and son in law key workers? If so they could access childcare through their local authority. Do they work from home? While the government guidance only mentions grandparents over 70 or with underlying health issues, they are also keen to reduce social contact between households to lessen risk. It may be that the childcare provided by the local authority is not available at the times they need, however. It would depend on the situation. It could be argued that the priority is that key workers get to work. If your daughter and son in law work from home, however, the guidance strongly encourages children to be looked after in their home.
Julie Allen says:
Hi. Both me and my partner are key workers. We have a 5 year old and a 2 year old. The 2 year old always went to her grandmas house whilst I worked but now i cannot let her have her. So where do i stand with work? My partner works full time and is the main earner so it’s my job that I’m having difficulty going to as I have both children. Please advise.
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, Do you both work outside the home and are neither of you able to do your job from home? In these circumstances you should contact your local authority about childcare provision in your area.
Urszula says:
Hi
Both me and my husband are key workers however I am staying home on furlough pay now and 29weeks pregnany. My daughter was meant to start 30hrs free nursery from 20th April but the nursery we chose has currently closed. Could my daughter start 30hrs with a different childminder who is still open? Or do i need to cancel contract with the nursery? Would really appreciate your advice. Many thanks
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, Your daughter could move to another nursery – check with your local authority. You may, however, have to cancel your existing place and the nursery may expect you to settle up or not return your deposit. It would be up to you to negotiate with them. The Government has asked them to be understanding in this kind of situation.
Jane says:
Hi i am a key worker that has to isolate for at least 12weeks because of underlying health issues and my child minder is asking me to pay 1/2 fees to keep place for baby. Can they do this?
Mandy Garner says:
It will depend on what your contract says. The Government says it is continuing to pay early years funding to childcare providers eg to support the 30 hours free childcare. It is also offering financial help for nurseries to cover costs, including a business rates holiday for one year, grants and access to the Job Retention Scheme. For the self-employed (including childminders) the Government has announced an income protection scheme covering 80% of earnings of up to 2.5K pounds a month. On continuing to charge parents fees for childcare if they are not earning, the Government says it urges all childcare providers to be reasonable and balanced in their dealings with parents and to access any financial support on offer.
Jane says:
My son is on 15 free hours, childminder said she isnt getting anyhelp as she is not a business so i have to pay best she can do to keep his place is pay half fee’s.
Catherine Lorimer says:
my husband and I are cat 2 key workers and we have a 2yo. currently childcare is only in place for cat 1 keyworkers so we have. no childcare. council are saying I’m a critical worker so cant work from home so effectively I can not work as have no childcare. seems local gov can not furlough so all I am entitled to is unpaid leave which seems criminal?
Mandy Garner says:
Hi Catherine,
It does seem wrong. When you say they are saying that you cannot work from home because you are a critical worker, being a critical worker does not necessarily mean you cannot work from home. The government advice is that anyone who can work from home should. Is there any way you could work from home? Have you contacted your local authority about childcare?
Charlie says:
I’m a bit confused my childminder have told us because they dont know when they are going to reopen we have to terminate our contract and pay them the months notice…. I dont want to terminate as I want my child to go back when they open. I also cant afford to pay them the £1000 notice amount at present but I feel I am being forced to pay money and terminate when I dont want to. Theres nothing in their contract for times like this or a retainer fee, surely this is them terminating the contract not me?!
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, contact https://www.pacey.org.uk/ for information on this. It would depend on the contract. It may be that the childminder needs to terminate the contract in order to claim self employed income protection.
AK says:
Hi,
I am a key worker and our nursery has closed. They have said that they will not charge for the period that the nursery has closed.
We have decided to pull our child out of nursery and issue a months notice. They have stated that they will charge for this 1 months notice. Can they do this?
thanks
Mandy Garner says:
It depends what is written in your contract.
Jo says:
I am in the same predicament, I have just been told I need to go back to work but my hours just won’t cover nursery fees. My partners wage is down by 600/800 pounds a month because of less hours so we haven’t got the money, the current situation has really hit us hard, surely nursery can see people are struggling through this difficult time which is no fault of their own & be able to at least waiver half the fees?
Danny says:
Hi, My partner and I have a 2.5 year old in a private nursery. I am working full time from home and my partner works for the nhs. The nursery are saying that non key workers can freeze their childs place with no fees payable yet key workers are due to pay full fees in April. Seems as though Key workers are being financially penalised for helping keep the country moving/safe. Spoke to department of education helpline who said they should not be charging due to the assistance they are receiving?
Mandy Garner says:
We have received a lot of complaints from people who cannot use nurseries because they are not key workers so must work around their children or are not earning and are therefore unable to pay nursery fees. Is your nursery saying that you have to pay because your child is currently in nursery or is your child at home with you? I know that the Government is continuing to pay early years support to nurseries for eg the 30 free hours for 3 and 4 year olds. Nurseries are also able to benefit from other schemes for businesses. If the DfE is saying they should not be charging then I would double check that as they may have got confused over the early years assistance which just covers the free hours schemes.
Christine says:
I am grandmother who is keyworker and usually help babysitting my 2yr okd grandaughter. My daughter is also keyworker but has been in isolation for 7 days and due to go back to work next week . Is it safe for me to still help with child minding as both keyworkers ?
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, If you are over 70 or in a vulnerable group the Government advice is that grandparents should not babysit for their grandchildren.
Ruby says:
I am a childminder and I’m still open for key workers children.
One of my keyworkers has decided to keep jer child at home with a parent that is a none key worker. Both are still being paid and they rec tax credits.
Surely I am still within my rights to be expected to be paid as I will also be keeping the place open for their child when they do decide to send him in.
Mandy Garner says:
It will depend on what is stated in your contract.
Kelly Mcleod says:
Hi I’m just looking for advice as I can’t get in touch with hmrc
My kids have both went into isolation due to my daughter having a collapsed lung I get help with nursery fees from hmrc
But as they are not going and I don’t have to pay the nursery For the tome being what do I do??
I’ve tired to phone hmrc and been in a que for hours with no luck I’m stressed that if I can’t get through to them and once this dues down I’ll have to pay it all back
Mandy Garner says:
Hi Kelly, It is extremely difficult to get through to DWP and HMRC at the moment. You could also try the webchat here – https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/tax-credits-enquiries or post your change of circumstances to them. As long as you have let them know and also bear in mind that they are likely to reclaim the extra money so put it to one side so you can afford to do so later.
Jade says:
Hi Kelly did you sort your situation out? What did HMRC say? I’m kind of in the same situation..
Did you receive a Text message from HMRC at any point?
Rachel says:
My daughters childminder is telling me to claim universal credit for childcare and to give to her whatever they give to me. Can she ask me to do this?
Mandy Garner says:
If your income has fallen due to coronavirus you may be entitled to Universal Credit to cover childcare expenses – see http://www.turn2us.org.uk. They have an online benefits calculator which will tell you what you are entitled to. You may have read in the news that UC lines are currently jammed and it is very difficult to get through due to demand.
Charlotte p says:
I work for the NHS and My child attends a private nursery but they are closing due to no staff because of the coronavirus I only work part time so I get help from tax credits towards the cost of the nursery fees. Do I need to tell tax credits she is not attending.
Mandy Garner says:
Yes, it is a good idea to inform HMRC. See https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-childcare-information/ for more information on tax credits and changes in circumstances.
Shravya says:
Hi,
My nearly 3 year old attends a private day nursery. I have been asked to pay half the fees for April although he wont be attending. Should I be paying for April and coming months when they are shut due to Govt policy around Corona?
Thanks
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, It will depend on your contract. The Govt has asked nurseries to be reasonable with parents and has offered some financial support.
Adele says:
I am single mum of two, working 22 hours a week part time as a care assistant in a care home. My friend helping out during my night shift has refuse further assistance due to the virus. Do I have to stop work and claim universal credit. I’m I eligible? Pls advice
Mandy Garner says:
Have you spoken to your employer about this? They should be able to advise. Otherwise, if you have to stop work, you should apply for UC.
Y Ajay says:
I work in the NHS on the front line. My husband does too. We have just been told that because of lack of demand our daughter’s nursery will be closing. We have no family here and no other person to provide child care. The options they are providing are far away and will add time to our overall commute. To settings our daughter is unfamiliar with. Can I ask the local authority to place her in a different nursery closer that has availability?
Mandy Garner says:
I would contact your local authority and explain your situation.
Kay says:
Hi,
I am a teacher and have three children who attend private nursery. Fees are in the excess of £1200+ monthly. Nursery is still open for children of key workers.
I am worried I will still have to pay fees when children are no longer attending, I also don’t know if I am entitled to pay on a Part-time hourly paid contract.
Kay says:
When I called the nursery to ask if my children were entitled care as I am in the key persons category, nursery refused?
Mandy Garner says:
Contact your local authority who should be able to advise.
Craig says:
Hi, our nursery is open so technically our 11 month old has childcare, I wfh but my wife is a key worker and has to go in. My question is, is it actually safe to put the baby in nursery? Surely her chances of infection are greatly increased by doing this? I feel very guilty at the thought of putting her in again. I can take some paid leave but can’t do that for very long. Not really sure what to do, all other illnesses spread really fast throughout nurseries so why would this be any different?
Mandy Garner says:
This is a decision for you to take, I’m afraid. You can talk to your nursery about your concerns and how they are managing risk.
Runaway123 says:
Can someone help me, my contract with my nursery is 9-5 but they have now told me that I will be charged late fees after 4. Surely this is illegal?
Mandy Garner says:
Could you explain a little more? Are they now closing earlier due to Covid?
Kay says:
Hi,
I am a teacher with 3 children who all attend nursery. Monthly nursery fees are in the excess of £1200+ I called the nursery to ask whether they were still open – “Yes for children of key workers” I am worried that I will still have to pay fees even when children are not attending. I also do not know where I stand in terms of sure pay being on a Part time hourly paid contract.
Mandy Garner says:
I am assuming you are not working. Fees will be an issue between you and your nursery and will depend on the contract you have with them and whether it covers them for this kind of thing. If your income is reduced due to not working you could look at whether you could increase or apply for tax credits as a result of your reduced income – see https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-your-questions-answered/
Martine Wayne says:
I’m a key worker but I dont want to send my son to childcare that has been provided my the council. I feel with my son mixing with others, comes home to me, I’m then working with the most vulnerable people without getting tested. I’m just so worried.
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, your anxiety is absolutely understandable. Have you spoken to your childcare provider about it and about the measures they might have in place to protect your son? Are you a single parent? Is your concern more about the nursery or about you passing on the virus to your son? Or both? Please email at [email protected]
Natalie says:
My daughters registered childminder had to close last week due to government advice. I have today had a phone call from the childminder advising she is giving me 4 weeks notice and is terminating the contract. I completely understand this but is it right that I still have to pay her for the month of April as she has decided to terminate the contract because of the covid situation. I am currently not working due to being home with my son whilst schools are closed and my husbands company has also had to close so worried about it financially.
Mandy Garner says:
There are many people in the same situation and childcare campaigners are urging the government to consider this issue. We will follow any updates. If your contract says you have to pay in this circumstance currently that is what you would have to do, but you may be able to ask to stage payments.
Annie says:
My childminder is charging me 50% fees for the foreseeable future and my daughter is unable to attend as I am not a key worker , is that right?
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-your-questions-answered/
Sarah says:
This is the same as me think council are ment to be getting some foundering sorted for them
Jem says:
My nursery is only opened to kewworkers children. However, every staff member has been asked to come in apart from the ones that are sick and has been signed off. Also I have a child that attends the nursery. Is it essential for me and my child to go in since we are over staffed? The total of children we had on Monday was 10 in the whole nursery with sixteen staff nit even including the manager and our administrator. I feel it is irresponsible. My main concern is can I take my child out and stay home with her even though i am a keyworker. And what are my benefits if I do as a key worker?
Mandy Garner says:
Is your nursery not considering furloughing workers [claiming compensation for those who cannot work due to the coronavirus] rather than keeping staff on who are not necessary? It may be that they were asking people to come in because they thought they would have more children. You should definitely self isolate if you think your child or you has symptoms and you can take unpaid parental leave.
Susan says:
Will I still get paid if they have decided not to be available for work?
My daughter `s nursery is shut now till further notice.
I feel worry about the risk I am taking on my baby. As we work closely with the numbers of students in accommodation. I don’t know what can I do.
Mandy Garner says:
The Govt is saying you should only go to work if your work is absolutely necessary, ie you are a key worker. Employers can claim compensation if people cannot work due to the coronavirus.
Carla says:
My nursery is currently staying open for the key parents children. However our management cant affect to pay us our full wages so have cut down our hours. Does this mean the government will still be able to cover the rest of our wage which we have lost out on as we cant work to our full time hours.
Mandy Garner says:
The government has implemented a scheme for furloughed workers, but these are people who cannot work due to coronavirus. If your employer is reducing your hours you may be able to claim increased support through benefits – see https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-your-questions-answered/
marlena says:
Hi, I am a key worker working 32hrs weekly, my son goes to a nursery for 15hrs a week, just wondering if the nursery can offer him placement for more than 15hrs weekly? In this difficult time it is almost impossible to find sb to look after him. Thanks
Mandy Garner says:
You will need to contact your nursery or local government about this.
Agi says:
My son`s nursery is shut now till further notice. We have just got email from them that they won`t charge fees as they got help from government to pay staff wages. We receive child tax credit which partly covers a childcare cost, do I have to inform HMRC that our nursery is shut?
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-guidance-for-employees
Kirsty says:
Hi I am in the same predicament as you. Did the link provided help as it all revolves around working tax credit not child tax credits? Thanks
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-your-questions-answered/
Caz says:
I did the Web chat with hmrc. They said you have to inform them if your no longer having to pay. And you get a 4 wk run on. Hope this helps
Jade says:
What’s a 4 week run on?
Thanks in advance.
Natasha says:
I have been advised to self-isolate for 14 days, due to someone in my household displaying symptoms. I have followed government advice and taken my 1yr old out nursey, the nursey are saying i need to pay his fees in full during this period, it is a private nursey. my concern is parents will not self isolate their children if they have to pay for a service they are not using. Do parents have to pay for childcare during household self-isolation?
Mandy Garner says:
We are seeking clarity on this point about whether nurseries will be covered by the compensation package announced on Friday.
Kirsty Mills says:
I would be keen to know this too!
Massey says:
Hi, I am confused as to why the government is keeping schools open to now basically operate as child care Centers, opposed to fully closing schools like most countries and keeping some childcare Centers, nurseries and child minders open?? Also if schools/ child care Centers are going to be open should there not be a limit of how many children and staff can be in the building at once?
Mandy Garner says:
They are only open for key workers and vulnerable children whose parents cannot keep them at home.
John .P says:
My sons Nursery was staying open for key workers, however since the government have announced 80% pay, the staff have all decided to stay at home for ‘social distancing’ and the nursery is now closed as there is not enough staff for it to remain open. Will the staff still get paid if they have decided not to be available for work? I would have thought the provision of childcare for key workers meant they would only get paid if they attended work as I believe is the case with school teachers?
Mandy Garner says:
We are urgently checking on this.
Ariana says:
Hi
My child nursery in a london borough is refusing to close. They have said that public health england has confirmed that the compulsory closure does not apply to private nurseries. Is this correct? Because of this, they say they are remaining fully open to all children and all parents must pay fees. This is really concerning as according to the broadcast all registered childcare providers should be closed to prevent the spread. I dont want to send my child due to the risk and I also feel it is unfair to ask for payment given the government has said they should close. I feel its socially irresponsible and worry about the children and adults put at risk. Can the nursery do this and who can I speak to about this further if they are not allowed?
Thank you
Mandy Garner says:
You can contact PACEY about this – https://www.pacey.org.uk/working-in-childcare/spotlight-on/coronavirus/closing-settings-coronavirus/
russell says:
The misses has now finished work (agreed un paid leave)due to now not having childcare after the shutdown on Friday. The government said if you are affected by corona virus they would cover 80% of wages. Can you confirm that this is covered? As technically we have been affected by this
Mandy Garner says:
The Government says they will cover up to 80% of wages of up to 2.5k a month of people who are not able to work due to the coronavirus – https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-chancellor-rishi-sunak-provides-an-updated-statement-on-coronavirus
Mandy Garner says:
We are double checking whether this applies to people who cannot work due to childcare issues or whether parents are expected to take unpaid parental leave.
Chris says:
Have you got an update on the above point? We are in the same situation. Thank you
Sarah Goodall says:
I am an NHS worker my mum is my main childcare provider she is a pensioner and wanting to self isolate which means I won’t have childcare will I still get paid.
Mandy Garner says:
The Government says they will cover up to 80% of wages of up to 2.5k a month of people who are not able to work due to the coronavirus – https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/the-chancellor-rishi-sunak-provides-an-updated-statement-on-coronavirus. Check with your employer.
Jayne says:
As you are a key worker you can get a place for your child in a nursery or a school
Tina says:
My 11 month old goes to a private nursery and they are telling me that they are staying open until they are told otherwise. However I thought the message was already clear that they need to close. Can they stay open? I don’t want to risk sending my child due to the additional measures that have been recommended
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, What part of the UK are you in? There is different advice in different parts of the country at the moment.
Gemma Welsh says:
I am childminder and have a parent on universal credit. Will she still get the childcare paid for even though we have been forced to stop working?. Can I claim this from her or do I suck it up as lost earnings?
Mandy Garner says:
We are seeking urgent advice on this.
[email protected] says:
Got a phone call from nursery said do not bring my children to nursery anymore. They only open for keys worker at the moment. But I still have to pay for nursery for March and April. £677
Personally I wasn’t prepared to pay money for no services, but there are contracts to adhere to, I also lost my job due to government officials announced have to be closed. Anything I can do? Regards nursery April invoice. Please advise
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.workingmums.co.uk/coronavirus-your-questions-answered/
Mandy Garner says:
If you are self-employed, you can claim the equivalent of Statutory Sick Pay and the Government has announced a delay to self assessment and VAT payments. Childcare campaigners are pressing for more for self-employed childminders.
Laura Payne says:
My childminder is telling us we need to pay full fees throughout the during of the closure. I appreciate that the situation is difficult for them but I cannot financially afford to continue paying for a service I am not receiving. We are not eligible for any government funding so I pay the full fees monthly. Will the childminder be eligible for any relief that would help with this and are they within their rights to continue to ask for full payment?
Mandy Garner says:
If they are self-employed they should be able to apply for the equivalent of Statutory Sick Pay and will not have to do self-assessment this quarter or pay VAT. Childcare campaigners are asking for further compensation. Govt support for parents for early years childcare is continuing.
Donna Underwood says:
My son who is 2 years goes to a childminder/ nursey but they have shut now because of this cond-19 but they still want payments I get help from tax credits for this but also I’m not allowed to go back to work because I’m pregnant I’ve only got 4 weeks left to go before having this little one but I don’t know where i stand about paying the childminder/ nursey because I’m a single mum and I’ve not told tax credits yet because i was waiting until I go on maternity leave to do it i had 3 more weeks left at work before going on maternity leave but now I can not go back because of this new 12 weeks thing my boss is going to ask head office to start my maternity leave earlier for me but I don’t know what’s going to happen about my sons nursey fees if i still get the money in my working tax credits even know they are shut please can you advise me what’s going to happen please.
Mandy Garner says:
Nurseries should be able to claim compensation for most of their staffing costs due to coronavirus as announced on Friday. Check with your nursery when they have a clearer picture of how this works next week.
Massey says:
Hi, would it not make more sense for child minders and nurseries to stay open for key workers opposed to schools? I’m confused.
Carol Lowrey says:
Hi I’m a registered childminder and a parent is a key worker, she claims the childcare element of working tax credits.
As I only normally do wrap around care would she be able to claim the extra for child to be with me alll day or do I do it for nothing? Thank you
Mandy Garner says:
Is your contract only for the wraparound hours? If so you would need a temporary change to the contract and she would need to contact tax credits to get an increased amount.
Hayley1607 says:
My partners son is going home to his mum today who is a key worker. We have offered to have him at home as our work has changed due to Covid-19 so we are basically isolated, but his mum is still insisting on keeping him and putting him into childcare whilst shes at work. Is there anything we can do about this? I believe she is putting him at extra risk.
Mandy Garner says:
This is complicated legal territory linked to the agreement your partner has with his ex-partner so you will need proper legal advice.
Amanda Johns says:
As a childminder I have a parent that is claiming child tax credits and most of her childcare fees paid. As we have been told to close am I entitled to still have a payment as I would potentially still been open? If not tact credit would have to be informed and the money stopped..
Mandy Garner says:
We are urgently checking the position with tax credit in these circumstances.
Laura Barrington says:
Is there any update on this
Mandy Garner says:
What part did you want an update on? We have information on the fees issue here – https://www.workingmums.co.uk/parents-should-not-have-to-pay-fees-for-childcare-which-is-not-provided/ and advice on summer childcare here – https://www.workingmums.co.uk/what-can-you-do-for-childcare-over-the-summer/
Nadine says:
I have just taken my 2 children out of childcare. One was in a private nursery and the other with a childminder. I received help from tax credits for childcare costs, do I need to contact tax credits to let them know.
Mandy Garner says:
We are urgently checking the position with tax credit in these circumstances.
Claire says:
I’m a key worker (teacher) and will still be at work. I pay extra to drop my child off early yet the nursery is saying they are not offering early drop off during this time which means I won’t be able to get to work on time. What are my rights?
Mandy Garner says:
Nurseries have been told to close or partially close due to coronavirus. Contact the Government helpline here – https://www.eyalliance.org.uk/coronavirus-info-for-nurseries
Hannah B says:
I have a term time only contract with the childminder , she is saying i still have to pay her even though i will not be using her services? Where do i stand please, advice greatly received.
Mandy Garner says:
We are seeking clarification. There are many areas that are still unclear so please bear with us and we will get you the information as soon as we can.
Monika says:
Could anyone advise me please. Our T&C says “: x nursery will not be able to offer refunds of fees or compensation. ” Do I understood this correctly: we wont get money back that we already paid but that doesn mean that we need to pay while nursery is not available for all kids?
Mandy Garner says:
You will have to address this with your nursery. Nurseries should now be able to claim back most of staff wages if nurseries have to close or lay off staff.
Sade says:
I claim a certain percentage for my childcare but now nursery is closed am struggling to get through on the phone am trying to stop my extra payments coming to me
Mandy Garner says:
Hi Sadie,
The Government has said all early years entitlements eg tax-free childcare, 30 free hours, etc, are still in place. Is that what you mean or are you talking about childcare vouchers – you would need to contact your provider about these.
Best wishes, Mandy
Kate says:
Hi
Both my partner and I are key workers, however I have a child that is usually cared for by my mom who is 70.My daughter does not attend a nursery and hasn’t started school nursery yet. I am a teaching assistant, my partner works away in the armed forces. Am I entitled to time off now to care for my youngest daughter?
Mandy Garner says:
Have you check with your school to see if you are still required? They may be able to cover your wages through the compensation scheme announced on Friday if the school is closed. Otherwise you can also contact your local education authority.
Carrie gray says:
Does anyone know what happens when you have money in your account with nursery I’ve almost £700 in mine as they are all year round but with what is currently happening they can’t return and also start school in September… The nursery have halted any further payments which is good but are saying I can’t have my money back does anyone know what I can do??
Mandy Garner says:
Are they keeping the money to cover fees over the next months, even though your child is not in nursery? We are seeking clarification on this point.
Nickie mclinden says:
My childminder is only Woking for key worker children, no problem as I am working from home. I’m phoning tax credits to tell them it’s stopping. Will I have to change to universal credit?
Mandy Garner says:
We are urgently seeking clarification on the implications with regard to tax credits.
Ally says:
I’m a full time working single mum and school has closed been advised I can only take one month off but school advised me he probably will not go back to new secondary school in September.
It’s still not clear what I can apply for would I have to quit to become sons childcare and teacher and would I be able to claim there is no clear answers please anyone in same boat that can or have been advised please
Mandy Garner says:
We are clarifying if inability to work due to school closures means your employer can claim compensation to avoid job losses. You should be able to take time off for dependents in relation to coronavirus, which is not time limited – see https://www.gov.uk/time-off-for-dependants and https://www.acas.org.uk/coronavirus/time-off-work-to-look-after-someone
Victoria Thomas says:
I am also following in a similar situation. My baby is 11 months old. The ‘time off from work to look after dependants’ is unpaid in my company. I cannot leave my baby with relatives as are high risk for focus-19 and my nursery is closed. What am I supposed to do?
Mandy Garner says:
We are checking urgently on this issue.
Linda Fenton says:
Are childminders in Scotland being told to shut down too?
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.childminding.org/news/coronavirus-a-message-for-childminders-including-important-clarification-that-childminding-is-open
Natalie Smith says:
Will the closure of childcare affect my tax credits if my provider is allowing a reduced rate during the closure.
I’m u able to work because of the closure and have no money to pay childminder other than the money I receive towards childcare from child tax credits.
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, we are seeking urgent clarification on this point and will update the site as soon as we have this.
Mandy Garner says:
This is the statement from government: “Funding for the government’s early years entitlements will continue during any periods of nursery, preschool or childminder closures, or where children cannot attend due to coronavirus (COVID-19).”
Stephanie says:
I don’t have a key worker role however my childminder is stating she would still be able to care for my child if I was still at work?
Which my workplace hasnt shut down so I would like to continue to work but is this going against government guidelines ?
Mandy Garner says:
All registered childminders have been advised to close – https://www.pacey.org.uk/working-in-childcare/spotlight-on/coronavirus/closing-settings-coronavirus/
Fill says:
My pre school nursery where I had 30 hours government funded hours is closed as of today.
I am a nhs key worker. Are there any other pre school nurseries opened in my area and is it possible for me to transfer my child to a different day nursery from monday 23rd march and obtain the 30 hours government funded dedicated hours from there?
Mandy Garner says:
Please contact your local authority who will be able to advise you on what is available locally and your rights.
Paula Wilson says:
I work in a private nursery which is staying open for key workers I have underlying health issues and don’t no if I will receive any benefits if I self isolate
Mandy Garner says:
Hi, If you are concerned about your health contact your doctor and get signed off sick. You should receive Statutory Sick Pay and you may also be entitled to Universal Credit – see http://www.turn2us.org.uk.
Apostolos says:
are childminders and nannies in wales included in the shutdown?
Mandy Garner says:
The Welsh government says: “Parents need to keep their children at home, wherever possible and schools and childcare and play settings should be open only for those children who absolutely need to attend.”
Louisa Adams says:
Hi my nursery in Wales has stated that it’s still open even for non key workers, is this correct? I am afraid to send my 2 year old in but also still have to pay the fees and if I give notice to take him out I have to pay 28 days notice
Mandy Garner says:
See https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51947148
Mandy Garner says:
See https://gov.wales/written-statement-eligibility-ongoing-provision-children-who-are-vulnerable-or-whose-parents-are-0
Stephanie Fogg says:
Govt saying they will pay 80% of wage if they are unable to work. I class having to stay at home as there is no childcare available “unable to work”. Why then do us working mums have to take time off unpaid? I’m a single mum and can’t afford to take 12 weeks off unpaid. Govt need to clarify what they mean by unable to work
Victoria Thomas says:
Agree agree agree! It strikes me that if you are a women with a baby you cannot work. It’s appalling.
Carmel Eyre says:
I have been also been advised that my children can no longer be cared for due to the government procedures on childcare.
My nursery is still saying I will need to pay my monthly fee, how can this be. You don’t pay for a service you don’t receive. Now I will have to take time off work to look after my child so I will not have any wages to pay for this non existant childcare. I even if I could remain in work, I refuse to pay for a service I am not receiving.They have stated they are guarenteed for a loan but they will be unable to pay this back so it seems rather than use the governments help, they are coming to the parents for the fees, which is totally barbaric.
Any advice appreciated. Thank you
Mandy Garner says:
Nurseries should be compensated and the details are still being worked out. We will be updating the site with more information very shortly.
Emily Daws says:
I would like answer too we being told got to pay keep sons place although can not attend and no refund for the prepaid either. Why do we pay for what mit receiving they are chaining the government not helping them?
Dagmara says:
Hi , im a nanny looking after school children before, after school and school half terms , im on fixed salary but from monday next week looks like im gonna work 8-9 hours per day for next few months due to school being close . My question is : is my salary staying the same or not ?
Many thanks
Mandy Garner says:
Hi Dagmar, What does it say in your contract? Does it specify your hours of employment and your duties? It will depend very much on your contract.
Dagmara says:
Well, i don’t have a contract , however I agreed to look after those children before, after school and school holidays that’s why im on fixed salary .
Paul Phelan says:
I have been advised that my children can no longer be cared for due to the government procedures on childcare. This is not a problem however, the childminder has stated that i must still pay in full. Is this correct does anyone know and if so is their anything in place for me to claim this back ? i understand this is not the childminders fault and should not be out of pocket but its not my fault either. I would of thought that the childminder would claim for loss of earnings from the government help scheme. any advice on this is greatly appreciated.
Mandy Garner says:
The Government is saying it will compensate childminders. The detail is still being worked out. It’s worth talking this through and contacting the experts – https://www.pacey.org.uk/
Nicola says:
We’re in the same boat. I just don’t know how we can carry on paying full childcare costs when we are on 80% pay.