New measures are being brought in to support the childcare needs of healthcare workers.
It follows government plans to lift lockdown restrictions gradually.
The delivery of childcare services to critical staff is a big part of the roadmap to reopen society and business.
Just over half of all essential workers have children while 9 % are lone parents.
Childcare practitioners will offer this new service and existing operators will be asked to sign up to open as an outreach hub.
Government spokesperson Liz Canavan gave this update:
"The delivery of childcare services to this group follows government plans to lift restrictions gradually and in line with public health advice and recommendations.
"The scheme is designed to protect children, their families and childcare practitioners who will offer this new service.
"Existing registered childcare services will be asked to consider signing up for the service and opening as an outreach hub."
Childcare practitioners who are in a position to take part in the new service are asked to sign up.
