The number of parents in Ukraine using the social service “municipal nanny,” initiated by the Ministry of Social Policy, is growing. As of November 1, 2024, 1,877 families are benefiting from this service, with 2,300 children receiving nanny care. This service is designed to support parents and guardians, making daily life easier for families in difficult circumstances.
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What is the “municipal nanny”?
The “municipal nanny” is a childcare service aimed at assisting parents or guardians by providing professional child care. Initially, this service was available only to parents or guardians of children who required additional care, as well as to parents with disabilities (Group I or II) who had children under the age of 3.
Expansion of the service
Since July 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved changes that significantly expanded the eligibility for the “municipal nanny” service. Now, the service is available to:
- Families that are internally displaced persons (IDPs) with children under the age of 3, regardless of their place of residence;
- Families living in areas where, due to martial law, kindergartens are not operating.
These changes are aimed at helping families who need additional time for education, retraining, or job search. Additionally, the service also offers an opportunity for potential nannies with the necessary knowledge and skills to find employment.
How to receive compensation for the “municipal nanny” service?
To receive compensation for nanny care, parents or legal guardians must independently find a municipal nanny, sign a contract with them, and submit the necessary documents to the nearest social protection office (USZN).
Who can be a municipal nanny?
A municipal nanny can be an individual entrepreneur (IE) who has specified the appropriate types of economic activity (KVED 97.00 and 88.91). Such a nanny can care for up to three children, except in cases of care for children from large families.
A municipal nanny can also be a legal entity (KVED 78.2, 85.10), which is authorized to care for up to six children. This legal entity can provide care at the address specified by the municipal nanny or at one of the children’s residence addresses, with written consent from the parents of all children, as indicated in the contract.
Restrictions on relatives
It is important to note that close relatives—parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters—cannot be municipal nannies.
The “municipal nanny” service has become an important tool for supporting Ukrainian families, especially in wartime conditions. It provides additional help with childcare, giving parents more time to develop their careers or pursue education, while also creating new job opportunities for professionals in the childcare field.