Families across Rhondda Cynon Taf can now access expanded Welsh Government-funded childcare for two-year-olds.
From 14 September 2026, all parents and carers of children aged two in the county borough are offered up to 12.5 hours of Welsh Government-funded childcare each week, starting from the term after their child’s second birthday until the term in which they turn three. The offer is available regardless of where families live within Rhondda Cynon Taf.
The expansion forms part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to a simpler childcare system that is easier for families to understand and access. The immediate priority is to ensure all two-year-olds in Wales are offered 12.5 hours of funded childcare by 31 March 2027.
Childcare will be provided through approved settings across Rhondda Cynon Taf. Eligible families will receive a letter inviting them to apply. Parents and carers who believe their child may be eligible but have not received a letter can contact [email protected].
Councillor Sharon Rees, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Young People, said: “We are delighted that families across Rhondda Cynon Taf can now access this expanded childcare offer for two-year-olds. We know that childcare can be one of the biggest costs for families with young children, and this funding will help ease some of that pressure while giving children access to high-quality early years experiences that support their learning, development and wellbeing.”
“This is an important step in ensuring every child has the opportunity to get the best possible start in life. We look forward to continuing to work with our childcare providers and Welsh Government partners to deliver this support for families across our communities.”
Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality, Sioned Williams, said: “This is excellent news and shows how we are accelerating our commitments to provide more childcare support for families as we build towards a universal childcare offer. Childcare costs in Wales are the highest in the UK, and I am determined to help lower costs for families in all parts of Wales, while also ensuring children can access the best start in life to support their development.
“We will continue to work closely with local authorities across Wales to deliver our expanded childcare offer while bringing more providers on board, to ensure that families can benefit from more affordable and accessible childcare.”
The council said the expansion is expected to benefit families and childcare providers, helping parents and carers access affordable childcare while supporting the long-term sustainability of childcare services across the county borough.
