§ Jackie BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what help is available with childcare costs for lone parents in the first month after returning to work. [58880]
§ Angela EagleFinancial help with childcare charges is available to working lone parents through the in-work benefits: Family Credit; Disability Working Allowance; Housing Benefit; and Council Tax Benefit.
Lone parents can claim help towards up to £60 a week if they pay for childcare for one child, and up to £100 a week if they pay for two or more children. The care must be of a recognised standard and in respect of children of the qualifying age (from birth up to the September following their 12th birthday).
The Working Families Tax Credit and the Disabled Persons Tax Credit will replace Family Credit and Disability Working Allowance in October 1999. These new schemes will include a childcare tax credit which builds on existing financial help. Lone parents will be able to claim help towards up to £100 a week if they pay for childcare for one child, and up to £150 a week if they pay for two or more children. The qualifying age for children 300W will be increased to cover all children up to age 14. In the case of children who are disabled and who have greater needs, until the school leaving age of 16.