An on-site nursery at Mile End and childcare vouchers are an excellent benefit available to staff with children.

Onsite nursery

Staff with children aged three months to five years can use the Queen Mary Nursery conveniently located at the Mile End site at discounted rates.  Further details and an application form can be accessed in the following links:

Please see the above factsheet for a quick step by step guide to applying for the Nursery Salary Sacrifice scheme.

Childcare voucher scheme

Staff are able sacrifice part of their salary in favour of Childcare Vouchers, which can then be redeemed against the cost of childcare.   Savings are made by not paying National Insurance contributions or Income Tax on the pay you receive in the form of vouchers.  Further details and an application form can be accessed in the following links:

Scheme from 1st April 2011

Please see the above factsheet for a quick step by step guide to applying for childcare vouchers.

Parents Guide to Childcare Vouchers

For further information on childcare vouchers please see the below link to guidance provided by Edenred, the service providers.

Workplace Options

Staff are able to access the Workplace Options (WPO), formerly Employee Advisory Resource for practical tips for parenting children of every age. Whether you are bringing home a new baby or negotiating the teenage years, the programme can provide counselling and support. It is a confidential service that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Let the trained specialists assist you with resources and information on practical parenting.

For further information, please call the service on: 0800 243 458

Useful links:

The Department for children, schools and families has a useful link, Every child matters where parents can access a wide range of information on children.

To assist parents and carers looking for childcare, the National Childminding Association (NCMA)provides a valuable service.