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
Pre-School Admissions 2027/28 - Key Dates for Parents
The Education Authority (EA) has now released the key dates of when the admissions criteria are published, when applications open, close and when you can expect to receive the outcome of your application.
Last Update: 05/11/2026
New Family Support NI Video
We are delighted to share our new Family Support NI video showcasing the work we do to support parents, practitioners and professionals across NI.
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.
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.
Northern Ireland Breastfeeding Action Plan 2026–2029
The Department of Health has launched the Northern Ireland Breastfeeding Action Plan 2026–2029[HA1] , which builds on the foundations and strategic direction of the previous breastfeeding strategy and sets out a clear, coordinated programme of action to improve breastfeeding outcomes for mothers, children and families for the next three years.
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Child Care Partnership Monthly Spotlight
The Childcare Partnership have added and exciting new section on their page. The Monthly spotlight will highlight events and issues arising in the Childcare arena each month.
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
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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.
