Childcare
All costs for the first month of a new job
People still search for the Flexible Support Fund, but GOV.UK has dropped the name. It now describes this help as getting help with the upfront cost of childcare and removing barriers to work. It is run through Jobcentre Plus in England, Scotland and Wales.
Quick facts
- Childcare
- All costs for the first month of a new job
- More hours
- Extra childcare costs for one month
- Also
- Travel to work or training, interview clothes
- Ask
- Your work coach or your journal
- Pay back
- Not for the childcare help
Who can get it — the full rules
The help is for people claiming Universal Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance who are moving into work or training. The cost must be a barrier to you reaching the goals in your claimant commitment.
For childcare, you might get help if you are starting work, or increasing the hours you work, and cannot pay the upfront cost yourself.
What it can pay for
- all your childcare costs for the first month of a new job
- all your extra childcare costs for one month if you increase your hours
- a deposit or retainer for your childcare provider
- travel to an employer or to where your training is held
- smart clothing for interviews or to start work
There is no fixed amount. Your work coach decides whether you qualify. You still pay for your own meals while you are on a back to work scheme.
How to ask for it
Work out the cost that is stopping you
Help is possible if the cost is a barrier to the goals in your claimant commitment.
Post in your Universal Credit journal
For upfront childcare, you can update your journal in your Universal Credit account.
Or ask your work coach at the jobcentre
You can ask a Universal Credit contact at your local jobcentre or your work coach.
Ask before the cost is due
On a back to work scheme, your work coach will tell you if you qualify for help and how to apply.
Things to watch
You will not have to pay back the help with upfront childcare. You may still get your normal Universal Credit childcare costs in the same month.
If you are on the Restart Scheme, the scheme provider should pay for travel, childcare and other costs instead of the jobcentre.
Phone, forms and how long it takes
- Universal Credit helpline
- 0800 328 5644
- Ask for upfront childcare help: post in your journal
- GOV.UK: Sign in to your Universal Credit account
From the official pages (gov.uk), re-checked every night. Numbers and times can change, so check the official page before you send anything.
Common questions
What is the Flexible Support Fund?
Jobcentre help with costs that stop you getting into work, such as upfront childcare, travel and work clothes. GOV.UK now calls it removing barriers to work.
How do I apply for the Flexible Support Fund on Universal Credit?
Ask your work coach, or update your journal in your Universal Credit account.
How much can I get from the Flexible Support Fund?
There is no fixed amount. For childcare, it can cover all your costs for the first month of a new job.
Do I have to pay the Flexible Support Fund back?
Not the help with upfront childcare. GOV.UK says you will not have to pay that money back.
Can I get help with travel to a job interview?
Yes, you might, if the cost is a barrier. Ask your work coach.