In West Lothian, children can qualify for funded early learning and childcare (ELC) based on certain eligibility criteria. Here's a breakdown of who is eligible:
| Age Group | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| 2-Year-Olds | - Must meet one of the following: <br> 1. Income Support <br> 2. Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance <br> 3. Income-based Employment Support Allowance <br> 4. Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance <br> 5. State Pension Credit <br> 6. Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 <br> 7. Universal Credit with a monthly earned income of £850 or below <br> - Child is looked after, under kinship care, living with a guardian, care experienced, or has a care-experienced parent. |
| 3-Year-Olds | - All children aged 3 or 4 years old are eligible for up to 1,140 hours of ELC per year. |
This funding can be accessed at council nurseries, private nurseries, and childminders registered with the council. If you have further questions or need to apply, you can check out West Lothian’s relevant pages for 2-year-old funding and 3-and-4-year-old funding for more information.