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<p>The Chancellor has regular discussions with his Cabinet colleagues on a range of
topics.</p><p> </p><p>The government is committed to helping parents into work, and
recognises that childcare costs can affect their decisions to take up work or increase
their hours. That is why we are spending almost £6 billion in 2019-20 on childcare.</p><p>
</p><p>Universal Credit claimants are able to claim up to 85% of their childcare costs,
compared to 70% under the legacy benefit system. This can be claimed up to a month
before starting a job, and is worth up to £13,000 a year for a family with two children.
Where claimants face difficulty in paying their costs upfront, Jobcentres will use
the Flexible Support Fund, which is a non-repayable award. Budgeting advances are
also available for those already in work.</p>
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