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Education Minister Repeals Nursery Priority for Disadvantaged Children

9/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Education Minister Paul Givan announced the repeal of the Socially Disadvantaged Circumstances nursery criterion.
The repeal ends priority nursery places for children whose parents receive benefits such as Universal Credit.
From September 2027 only Income Support and the now-defunct Jobseeker’s Allowance will qualify.
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter said the repeal removes the only statutory protection for children living in absolute poverty.

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Story summary

Education Minister Paul Givan announced the repeal of the Socially Disadvantaged Circumstances nursery criterion.
The repeal ends priority nursery places for children whose parents receive benefits such as Universal Credit.
From September 2027 only Income Support and the now-defunct Jobseeker’s Allowance will qualify.
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter said the repeal removes the only statutory protection for children living in absolute poverty.