Help with Finding Childcare



Cornwall's Family Information Service can help families to find childcare. This is called a brokerage service.

The service is free and can tell you about all the different types of childcare available in your area. We can also contact the childcare provider for you, to check for vacancies and discuss your needs with the childcare providers to try and find the best possible option for you.

Who may benefit from help with finding childcare?

If you:

• Have a child aged 2, 3, or 4 years and are eligible for funded early years education.
• Have a child with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).
• Are unsure about approaching childcare providers or schools yourself.
• Are new to Cornwall and need help looking for childcare.
• Need information on what to look for.
• Receive support for Social Care Services.
• Have additional needs or disabilities yourself.
• Need help to find a setting that suits your family's and your child's needs.
• Have English as a second or additional language.

How does the service work?

We will ask you some questions about your childcare requirements to ensure we can find the best match for you and your child.

We will search for childcare relating to your needs in your local area.

We will contact the settings on your behalf to discuss whether they have availability and would be a good fit for you.

We can pass on your details to the setting to contact you (with your permission) or pass you the contact details so you can make contact when you are ready.

We cannot guarantee that the setting you choose will have availability when you need it and we will help to find an alternative if needed.

How do I access this service?

If you need help finding childcare, please contact us on:

Telephone - 0800 587 8191

Email - fis@cornwall.gov.uk