The UK Nursery Authority childcare scheme is now live. It means eligible working Service families in the devolved nations can now receive the same level of help with early years childcare costs as you would if you were in England.
UKNA works by paying reimbursing families living in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland who have already paid out for childcare and will help to help cover the differences in cost where you live.
There is a webinar on 30 September at 10.30am, covering eligibility, and the registration and claims process. It will also look at the potential impact on your income tax and National Insurance.
To book a place, complete the UK Nursery families Q&A form.
You can register for UKNA funding if:
- You’re a Regular or full commitment Reservist and your family lives in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
- Both parents – or the sole parent in a single parent family – work at least 16 hours a week at the UK National Minimum or Living Wage.
- Your child is aged between nine months and three in Scotland and Wales, nine months and four in Northern Ireland, and is recorded and verified on JPA.
- Your child lives with you at least half the time, unless you’re separated for Service reasons.
- You have an active Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) account for your child and your provider accepts TFC payments.
See our early years and childcare page to find out more about using the UK Nursery Authority childcare scheme. Or you can visit Discover My Benefits.
PUBLISHED 21 SEPTEMBER 2026