Child Minders

The law relating to caring for young children varies depending on the age of the child.

For children under 8 years, all childminders and day care providers must be registered with Ofsted on the Early Years Register.

Registration includes criminal records checks by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) on staff and those working with children along with an inspection of premises for Health and Safety and welfare issues.

Within this age group those caring for children between 5 and 7 years of age must join the compulsory part of the Childcare Register.

Always check that the childcare provider is registered and ask to see their registration certificate. Alternatively check with your local Families Information Service (FIS). Call 0800 234 6346 for the number of your local office.

Childcare for the over 8’s does not need to be registered with Ofsted and neither does care provided in the child’s home. However, providers such as nannies may choose to voluntarily register.

Ofsted publish a list of those registered along with latest reports and you can find the link on the Directgov website at www.direct.gov.uk/parents or alternatively go straight to www.ofsted.gov.uk/oxcare_providers/list .

You can find a list of registered childminders in your area by going to www.schoolsfinders.direct.gov.uk/ and scrolling down to the bottom of the page. It also shows whether the childminder will pick up from school.