How to book a nursery space

Emergency Childcare members are able to search for their closest nurseries, plan which they'd like to use, and book when they need.

When you need to book a nursery space
What happens after you book a nursery space

Start by selecting nursery in our search

1) Local nurseries are listed
Nurseries are shown in order of proximity (as the crow flies) to the postcode entered. Click on a nursery name for more information.

2) Read the nursery's profile
If you're unfamiliar with the nursery, you can read a little about them, their opening times and facilities. We add answers to questions we get asked a lot from parents in a Commonly Asked Questions tab. It's a handy a way to check if you're unsure about something.

3) Enter the day(s) you'd like to request, and for which child
Subject to availability you can book as many days as you require, up to 3 months in advance or up until 1 hour before the nursery opens that morning. If you need a nursery space on the same day, you may prefer speaking to our team on 0345 241 5307 (7:00am to 7:00pm, Monday to Friday).

4) Confirm any childcare options
Please specify who will pick up your child from the nursery, and set a collection password (a phrase you and the nursery will know). If you have any specific requirements, whatever they may be, please remember to let us (and therefore the nursery) know at this stage.

5) Check the costs
Please check the overview of the booking, and the amount owed. If you're happy with the amount, your credit card details are taken.

6) Check the confirmation details
You'll be shown details on the screen and an email will be sent to you. The confirmation email includes: opening times of the nursery, a map link on how to get there, a checklist of things which you may need to bring, as well as a medical disclaimer which you will need to print off and sign.

7) Alternative nurseries
Once you've completed your request, we ask for your alternative nursery preferences in the unlikely event that the one you've selected doesn't have availability. We can then book with your alternative choices on your behalf.

What happens after requesting a nursery space?

1) The nursery and our team are alerted
The nursery receives a text message and email. They also receive a form corresponding to the one parents get, ensuring that no important issues are overlooked and your child has everything needed for the day.

2) Availability is checked
Our team and system will check with the nursery if there's availability.

3) Your booking is confirmed
Our team will let you know that the nursery has accepted your request, and will be able to take the booking.

In the unlikely event the nursery doesn't have availability our team will book with one of your alternative preferences. You'll be kept informed at every stage of the booking.

4) Your nursery booking takes place

5) Let us know how we did
We'll send you an email asking for some feedback. We really appreciate you taking the time to let us know about your booking. We measure ourselves by the feedback we receive from parents.