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).

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