Lockhart Welcomes Extension of Childcare Subsidy Scheme

Carla Lockhart MP • March 19, 2025

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister Paul Givan MLA that the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) will be extended into the 2025/26 financial year, with a 10% increase in the subsidy payment cap from 1st April. 

Speaking on the news, Carla Lockhart MP said:


“The Childcare Subsidy Scheme has been a lifeline for working parents in Upper Bann, helping to ease the financial burden of childcare costs. Since its introduction in September 2024, it has provided vital support to parents with children who have not yet started primary school, offering a 15% subsidy on childcare fees. 


Between 1st September 2024 and 21st February 2025 alone, Upper Bann has benefited from £402,350 in support through this scheme, demonstrating the real impact it is having on local families. 


The decision to extend the scheme into the next financial year is fantastic news, ensuring that this support remains in place for parents who need it. The increase in the subsidy payment cap is also a welcome boost, helping to further ease the financial strain on working families. 


Affordable and accessible childcare is key to supporting parents in work and ensuring children get a great start in life. I will continue to push for further investment in childcare support so that more families in Upper Bann and beyond can benefit from schemes like this.” 


For more details on the scheme, visit: [Education NI](https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/education-minister-announces-continuation-northern-ireland-childcare-subsidy-scheme).

Share

DAERA Farm Investment Scheme a missed opportunity to combat rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 28, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.

Lockhart criticises DAERA plans for £2m on-farm TB biosecurity advice service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.

MP invites DEFRA Secretary to Upper Bann and sets out priorities for UK agri-food sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.

MP urging Prime Minister to restore confidence across UK farming sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.

Lockhart commends community spirit at Killicomaine Fun Day and bonfire celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.

Lockhart welcomes confirmation of Mill Hill speed ramp replacement

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed confirmation from the Department for Infrastructure that a missing speed ramp on Mill Hill, Waringstown, will be reinstated following representations she made on behalf of concerned local residents.

Lockhart congratulates Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch on 20 years of community service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch as the organisation marked its 20th anniversary, praising its volunteers for two decades of dedication to keeping the village safe. 

Lockhart praises community spirit at South Lurgan Eleventh celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the organisers of a successful Eleventh of July Fun Day and Tea Dance in Lurgan, commending the outstanding community spirit on display ahead of the annual Twelfth celebrations.

Lockhart celebrates strong community spirit as thousands marked the Glorious Twelfth

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the tremendous turnout and community spirit displayed across Northern Ireland as thousands gathered to mark the Glorious Twelfth.

Lockhart praises record crowds at Royal Black Institution Demonstration in Scarva

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has hailed this year’s Royal Black Institution Demonstration at Scarva as a resounding success, describing it as a powerful celebration of faith, culture and community following record-breaking attendance.