Using a qualitative approach including an online survey and a focus group, the study sought to examine the factors that prevented 'hard to engage' families from taking advantage of the two-year-old funding for free early education and care within one United Kingdom-based context. In particular, the study sought to identify any barriers that parents with children with SEN/D faced and how these could be rectified. Thematic analysis revealed three themes; a fear of stigmatization, a lack of awareness in regards to eligibility, and concerns over the ability of staff to deal with a child's additional needs. Findings are discussed with a consideration of whether it is the families that are 'hard to engage' or alternatively, whether service providers are themselves 'hard to engage.