The Childcare Fund is a means tested fund designed to help students with childcare costs who have fallen into short-term, unforeseen hardship. The fund is managed and monitored by our Advice Service, independent from LSE.

SERVICE UPDATE:

Please note that effective from 12pm on 24th October 2025, the LSESU Childcare Fund is open to only all enrolled students, as opposed to registered students. Furthermore, from 29th October 2025 you must be based in the United Kingdom to receive support funds.

We aim to review all Hardship Fund applications within 7 working days.However, during busy periods, response times may extend to 10 working days or more.

We appreciate your patience while our Advice Team carefully reviews each application to ensure fair and thorough consideration.

Please note that all LSESU Advice Service Fund applications will be temporarily closed from 1:00pm on Monday 15 December 2025 due to the holiday closure period. This includes the Hardship Fund, Gender Expression Fund and the Childcare Fund.

Applications reopen: Wednesday 7 January 2026

Any applications during this closure will not be reviewed or processed.

If you are experiencing an urgent financial emergency, please contact LSE Student Support and LSE Access Funding, Citizen’s Advice Bureau or Turn 2 Us

Thank you for your understanding.

How can the Childcare Fund help me?

Whilst we consider each case on its individual merits, the main categories from which we would normally consider making an award are:

  • Nursery Fees
  • Childminder Costs
  • Afterschool Clubs

Please note, our normal maximum limit for applications is two per year, per enrolled student.

For more details, please read the Childcare Fund Guidance Document. It is very important that you read the guidance thoroughly to avoid delays in the processing of your application. Missing information from applicants is the primary reason for applications which are delayed.

If you have any queries about the guidance, please email su.advice@lse.ac.uk.

Download guidance document

Download application form

Am I eligible?

The Childcare Fund is open to all currently enrolled LSE students with dependents under 18 residing in the UK. The full eligibility criteria can be found in the Childcare Fund Guidance Document.

Awards are normally only made in instances where the financial hardship was unforeseen. The Childcare Fund Panel will assess your current shortfall, as well as your anticipated income over the year. Your circumstances will then be carefully considered alongside the supporting evidence you provide. You have the right to appeal the Panel’s decision.

Please note that the Childcare Fund is solely for childcare costs. For other enquiries, please see the Hardship Fund.

How do I apply?

Those wishing to apply should first read the Childcare Fund Guidance Document for information regarding application and eligibility criteria. You should then complete the Childcare Fund Application Forms and email it across to su.advice@lse.ac.uk, along with any corresponding evidence.

Download application form

 

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