Looking for childcare in Manchester, Oldham or Rochdale for September 2025? You’re not alone, and you might be surprised how much help is available. Thanks to government funding schemes, many working families can access up to 30 hours of funded childcare a week, and some families can get even more support depending on their situation. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what’s available, who’s eligible, and how to get started. Whether you’re planning ahead for nursery, exploring your options for under-2s, or already counting down to September, this guide is for you.
What Are the Childcare Funding Options in 2025?
From September 2025, the UK government is expanding its childcare support to cover more families, starting from when your child is just 9 months old. Here’s what you need to know:
1. 30 Hours Funded Childcare for Working Parents
From September 2025, working parents of children aged 9 months to school age will be able to claim up to 30 hours a week of funded childcare.
You qualify if:
- You (and your partner, if you have one) earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours/week at minimum wage
- You each earn less than £100,000/year
- Your child is 9 months or older by the start of the term
This is a game-changer for families across Greater Manchester, especially in areas like Oldham, Rochdale and North Manchester, where working parents often juggle shift work, part-time hours or early return-to-work plans.
2. 15 Hours Universal Funding for 3 & 4-Year-Olds
Every child aged 3 or 4 in England is entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare per week, starting the term after their third birthday.
It doesn’t matter if you’re working or not – this support is available to everyone. It’s perfect for families who want a gentle start to early education, or just need a bit of extra time in the week.
Many nurseries in Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale, including Brighter Beginnings, offer flexible sessions so you can make the most of your hours.
3. 15 Hours for Eligible 2-Year-Olds
If your family is receiving certain benefits, you could get 15 hours a week of funded childcare starting from your child’s second birthday.
You may be eligible if you receive:
- Universal Credit (with a household income under £15,400/year)
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Working Tax Credit (with a low income threshold)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for your child
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, most nurseries, including Brighter Beginnings, can help you check and apply.
4. Tax-Free Childcare (Up to £2,000 a Year)
If you’re working and paying for childcare, you can open a Tax-Free Childcare account and get 20% of your costs paid by the government.
- For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2
- You can get up to £2,000 per child per year
- It can be used alongside your 15 or 30 funded hours
Great for covering any top-up fees or extras like meals, full days, or extended hours.
5. Universal Credit Childcare Support
If you’re working and on Universal Credit, you could claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs.
This support is especially helpful if you’re:
- Returning to work after a break
- Increasing your hours
- Working unpredictable shifts
How to Find Funded Childcare in Manchester, Oldham & Rochdale
There are lots of nursery options across Greater Manchester, but not all of them offer funded places. At Brighter Beginnings, we work closely with families in Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale to help them get the childcare they’re entitled to.
We offer:
- 15 & 30 hour funded places
- Support applying for your funding code
- Flexible sessions to suit working families
- Expert staff and a nurturing, safe environment
When Should I Apply?
If you’re planning to start childcare in September 2025, you’ll need to:
- Apply for your funding code by August 2025 (if you’re using the 30 hours scheme)
- Secure your nursery space early, many places fill up by late spring
- Check your child’s date of birth to confirm which term they’re eligible to start
The earlier you get started, the more likely you are to get the days and hours you want.
Final Thought: Don’t Miss Out
Every year, we meet parents who didn’t realise they were eligible, or waited too long to apply. Don’t let that be you.
If your child will be 9 months or older by September 2025, now’s the perfect time to look into your options.
Get in touch with your local Brighter Beginnings nursery to:
- Check availability
- Ask questions about funding
- Arrange a visit
Childcare in Manchester doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right funding, it might be more accessible than you think.