Find local services and information to support you and your family
Find registered childcare in N Ireland and useful information including financial support
Training and support for childcare providers
Childcare Plan (2025-2028)
The early years of a child’s life are crucial not only for their personal development but for the wellbeing and prosperity of our communities as a whole. As we look ahead to the future, the Childcare Partnership Plan 2025-2028 represents our members shared contribution towards a high quality, accessible and inclusive childcare system that supports every child to thrive and every family to flourish.
Last Update: 15/01/2026
Childhood Vaccination information sessions
PHA are rolling out two childhood vaccination information sessions for Community and Voluntary sector staff that work with children.
Northern Ireland Qualification Audit - Registered Group Based Childcare (July 2025)
SPPG Community Care staff have released a comprehensive qualification audit within registered group based childcare settings in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS)
The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) was recently extended to include school age children (4 to11 years) in addition to those aged 0-4 years.
Working Parents - Financial Assistance with Childcare Costs
Many working parents are not claiming government financial assistance with childcare costs e.g. Tax Free Childcare, Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit which will support them to remain in work. Most working families are eligible ...
Finding Childcare
All Registered Childcare Providers are listed on Family Support NI which is the central government register of REGISTERED and APPROVED Childcare Providers throughout Northern Ireland. We provide the most up-to-date information available about childcare provision
Worried about the welfare of a child?
If you are worried about the welfare of a child
or young person not already known to social services,
please contact your gateway team in your local Health and Social Care Trust.
Are YOU worried or in despair?
Please call lifeline. Lifeline is the Northern Ireland crisis response helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair.
Child sexual exploitation in N Ireland
If you're concerned about child sexual exploitation or want more information, you can contact a 24-hour
helpline to get confidential advice and support:
Telephone number: 0800 389 1701
Visit NIDirect for more: Child sexual exploitation – protecting children and young people
Site safe
All organisations on this website have declared to the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) that they have clear policy and procedures for safeguarding children.
