What are Childminders

Childminders offer childcare in their own homes. They must be registered by the local Registration and Inspection Unit who ensure that their homes are safe, the childminder is in good health, is suitable for the job and has appropriate insurance. Childminders provide full, part time and flexible care.

How Much Does it Cost?

Childminders are self employed and set their own fees. The average hourly rate is £3.50 but this can vary depending on the type of care and services the childminder offers. Reductions are often made for siblings.  For most people, about 80% of child minding fees can be reimbursed through the Government incentive - Childcare vouchers scheme.  This means it could actually work out to be as little as £20 per week from your pocket.

How Do I Find a Childminder?

Lists of registered childminders are available from the Registration and Inspection Unit but they do not give details of vacancies.

It is advisable to look around well in advance of the date you need a childminder and to visit several minders before you make a final choice.

How Do I Choose a Childminder?

Contact the childminders and make arrangements to visit them. Points to look out for/questions to ask:

• Good play facilities indoors and outdoors
• What is the childminders experience, and attitude to childcare, is it similar to your attitude?
• Is a positive view of people of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, religion and special needs being promoted?
• Does the childminder smoke?
• How are the children disciplined?
• Do you need to supply nappies, toiletries milk or food?
• Do the childminder take children to parent & toddler group, playgroup, play or recreation areas, baby clinic etc.?
• Are there any pets and where are they kept while the children are around?
• Will you have to pay a retainer during your child's illnesses, your holidays etc.?
• If the childminder is ill can he/she make arrangements for alternative care?
• Has the childminder had any training in child development, play or care?
• How long has he/she been childminding?
• Does the childminder take children referred to him/her by social services?
• Is the childminder 'sponsored' by social services?

What Next?

Ask to see registration documents, insurance certificates, health and safety records etc. Parents and childminders should sign a contract to include: fees, specific arrangements for holidays and illness, a trial period, provision for meals and notice required to end the contract etc. The childminder should offer you a contract once you have come to an agreement.

Working Together

If once you have found a childminder you are unhappy with the way things are going, discuss the difficulties with her/him as soon as they arise. If your difficulties are not resolved you may wish to contact the local Registration and Inspection Unit who have an Under 8's Officer to help with this sort of enquiry, or you may want to discuss any problems in confidence with a member of Child Link staff. Maintain a business like relationship with you childminder however much a friend they become. Try to be punctual both in leaving and collecting your child and keep the minder informed of any changes in the days routine.

You should always ensure that the childminder is paid on the agreed day.

Information, Advice & Support

Carers and parents can become members of organisations where they can obtain information, publications and advice on all aspects of childminding.