The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) will now allow children born in July or August to continue receiving support while they remain in Primary 7, after Education Minister Paul Givan confirmed changes to the eligibility rules.

The previous arrangements had meant families whose children turned 11 in July or August before starting Primary 7 lost their childcare subsidy, even though the children were in the same year group as classmates who remained eligible. This inconsistency prompted complaints from parents.

In a letter dated 9 October responding to North Antrim DUP MLA Paul Frew, Mr Givan said he recognised the concerns and the inconsistency affecting a small number of children who lost eligibility solely because of their date of birth. He confirmed that a decision had been taken to amend the arrangements so affected families could keep NICSS support while their child remains in Primary 7.

The minister said the change responded to concerns raised by parents and reflected his commitment to making childcare more accessible and affordable for working families.

The Department of Education is issuing updated guidance to childcare providers and affected families explaining the revised arrangements and how eligible households can continue accessing support.

Mr Givan clarified the amendment applies only to the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme and does not change eligibility for Tax-Free Childcare, which HMRC administers separately.

Mr Frew had written to the minister on 1 October after being approached by parents whose children had turned 11 in July or August before entering Primary 7. He welcomed the decision, saying it addressed the inconsistency and allowed affected families to continue receiving support. He said the practical change reflected the DUP's priority to support working families by making childcare more accessible and affordable.

For parents affected by the previous rules, a July or August birthday will no longer by itself prevent receipt of NICSS support during Primary 7. The change ends the difference in treatment between children in the same school year.

Updated guidance is being issued, but the minister's correspondence does not state whether payments already lost under the previous arrangements will be reimbursed.