Tuesday May 26th 2026
Scottish Borders Council headquarters
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Scottish Borders Council (SBC) is encouraging parents and carers of eligible two-years-olds to make the most of the free early learning and childcare that is available to them across the Borders.
Places are provided in some school nursery classes, as well as private day nurseries, playgroups, or child-minders, through SBC’s own services or in combination with providers in the private or third sector.
The offer applies to children with parents or carers who receive:
– Income Support, Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance, any income related element of Employment and Support Allowance
– Incapacity/severe disablement allowances, Pension Credit, Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
– Universal Credit where the monthly earned income does not exceed £885
Two-year-olds who are looked after by a local council, the subject of a kinship care or guardianship order are also eligible. As are children of a parent who has experience of care.
Councillor Julie Pirone, SBC’s executive member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning, said: “We continue to see young children experience the benefits of early learning and childcare hours, as they are given the opportunity to develop their social, language and learning skills”.
“I would encourage any parent or carer who thinks they may be eligible for free ELC hours for their children to check the council website, to find out more about what is available in their local area and how to apply”.
More information, and the eligibility application is available on the council’s website: www.scotborders.gov.uk/elc2. You can also contact your local school, nursery, or childminder for further details.
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