Childminders opposed to lighter regulation, finds major survey

The National Childminding Association (NCMA) received more than 2,700 responses to its survey, of which 70 per cent believe lighter regulation of childminders will have a detrimental effect on the quality and safety of care on offer.

Their concerns have been raised following reports that the government is considering changing the model of inspection and regulation of childminders, to fit more closely with the model used in the Netherlands.

Under the Dutch model, childminders are regulated by local parent-led agencies, which train and monitor childminders, not the government or a national inspectorate such as Ofsted.

Catherine Farrell, joint chief executive of the NCMA, said: “Our survey reveals that 85 per cent of respondents believe being regulated and inspected by Ofsted helps them to reassure parents that they are professionals delivering a good quality service.

“More than 80 per cent said they valued their inclusion in the Ofsted system because it demonstrates to parents how they keep children safe and provide quality learning and developmental experiences.”

The NCMA is campaigning to keep the current system of regulation and met with children’s minister Sarah Teather yesterday to discuss the concerns.

Farrell added: “The current Ofsted system is not costly or burdensome to childminders so there will be no cost-savings to pass on to parents. The new proposed model is likely to save Ofsted money but cost government more.

“Furthermore, regulation has not singlehandedly led to a drop in childminder numbers and recruiting more childminders will not necessarily reduce costs for parents.

“NCMA wants government to widen its focus from just one aspect of childcare regulation to work with the sector to explore all the ways in which, in these times of austerity, children and families can still benefit from affordable but high quality care and early learning.”