How quickly can our employees actually get childcare on the day?

Often within the same morning. On Bubble, care can be booked with less than 30 minutes' notice, and on average eight carers apply to every job posted. Availability varies by location and time of day, so employees get the best choice by posting as early as they can.

Does same-day childcare replace time off for dependants?

No. Time off for dependants is a statutory right and stays in place whatever benefits you offer. Same-day childcare gives employees another option, so they can arrange cover and keep working if they choose to, rather than losing the day.

Do we need to integrate anything with our HR systems?

No. With Bubble for Work, employees download the app and register with their work email, and the benefit is applied automatically. There's no technical integration, and Bubble's account management team handles onboarding, monthly reporting and quarterly reviews.

What happens if an employee uses up their allowance?

They can keep booking and pay the difference themselves. The Bubble for Work Allowance is used first on every booking, and anything beyond it is charged to the employee's own payment method. Their complimentary Bubble+ subscription still reduces the fees they pay.

Can employees use Tax-Free Childcare to pay for the extra hours?

No. Tax-Free Childcare can only be used with approved childcare providers registered with Ofsted (or the equivalent regulator outside England), and in-home babysitting doesn't need to be registered. Employer-funded allowances are a separate route that covers some or all of the cost instead.