As the cost of living continues to rise, a recent BBC report has revealed that some childcare providers have raised costs by up to 10%, meaning many families in need of childcare will be spending more money.

This 10% extra cost could mean many families will have to make more sacrifices when it comes to cutting spending.

Rhiannon Philps, personal finance expert at NerdWallet, has shared some top tips for parents who might be struggling with the rising costs of childcare:

Check if you’re eligible for free childcare hours

“For many struggling parents, the grim reality is that the extra costs of childcare could mean less food on the table. According to Coram’s Childcare Survey, the average weekly cost of full-time childcare for under twos last year was around £269, and this figure could be even higher this year.

“One way to avoid these costs is to find out if you’re eligible for free childcare hours. Many people aren’t claiming them because they either don’t know about it or it seems too complicated.

“For example, every parent in England is eligible for 15 hours of free childcare per week during term time for three to four year olds. Other parents could be eligible for up to 30 hours of free childcare per week depending on income, and some parents can receive free childcare for two year olds if they receive certain benefits.

“It’s important to know if you’re eligible for any free hours, as a lot of money could be saved by utilising them.”

Claim tax-free childcare if you’re working

“Under the government’s tax-free childcare scheme, working parents can receive tax-free money to go towards the cost of childcare for children that are aged 11 or under.

“Parents can receive up to a £500 top-up payment four times a year for each child, which can go towards the cost of childcare.

“To do this, set up a government childcare account, and for every £8 paid in, the government will give you a £2 top-up of up to a maximum of £2000 per year for each child until they reach 11. For a disabled child, you can get up to £4000 a year until 1 September after the child turns 16.”

Get support if you’re eligible for Universal Credit

“Working parents on universal credit could claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs every month, up to £646 for one child, or £1,108 for two or more children.

“To be eligible, you and your partner (if you live together) will need to be on universal credit and be working, or have a job offer..”

Look out for community support

“If you’re looking for guidance, it’s worth checking your local communities’ family information services. They should be able to provide lists of registered childminders, nurseries, clubs and activities in your area.

“It’s also worth asking local people on social media for recommendations in groups and forums, while your local authorities and people in your community could offer services such as toddler play groups that could only cost a small fee.

“Some local councils have nurseries that are run on a non-profit basis. They may have a waiting list, but the cost can be hundreds of pounds per month cheaper than private nurseries. For information on these, search your local authority’s website.”

Make use of cheap/free holiday activities

“During the school holidays, ensuring a child is cared for and entertained can be a tricky one. However, there are likely free organisations in your local area that offer activities to keep your child occupied and cared for during time-off school.

“Community centres, youth groups and your local authority may run specific activities and trips away that are worth exploring. Schools may also have information about holidays and other schemes, and might even run activity groups themselves during the holidays.”

Friends and family

“Nurseries and nannies are too expensive for most families, but if you have a parent, grandparent or any other family member that can help you out, it’ll make your life much easier.

“Bear in mind that under the Childcare Act, anyone other than close family looking after your child for more than two hours a day between 6pm and 2am (babysitters, for instance), or for more than 14 days a year, outside the child’s own home, must be registered as a childminder. This involves having a criminal record check, taking a childcare course and paying an annual fee to Ofsted.”