Childcare ‘outside the home’ is subject to registration and inspection by government departments within the UK.
Childcare outside the home
Childcare ‘outside the home’ is subject to registration and inspection by government departments within the UK. The purpose of registration and inspection is to ensure National Standards are met, that strict Health and Safety measures are maintained, and that the activities within the establishments are based around the development of the child and its ability to learn.
Establishments registered for childcare include: Nurseries, Child minders, Crèches, Before and After School and School Holiday Clubs and Sessional Care – pre-schools where the child is left in the care of the staff. The Managers and Senior Staff of these establishments should have the appropriate qualifications and all staff should have been checked through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure process.
It is recommended that you should research availability well before a return to work date from maternity leave as places can sometimes be difficult to arrange. Childcare Information Services in Scotland keep lists of child carers with current vacancies; they can match your requirements to establishments with vacancies and send them to you.
Be prepared
When you know what type of care you want you need to think about the requirements for your child. Visit childcare providers and find out as much as possible about the establishment. Do not be afraid to ask about:
- staff expertise and qualifications
- activities in a typical day
- what you are expected to provide
- procedure or expectations in the event of illness etc.
Take this opportunity for a tour of the premises paying particular attention to cleanliness and tidiness and if the atmosphere appears friendly and warm. Are the children there active and happy and interacting well with staff? It may be necessary to visit and interview several different providers before you make a final decision. Remember that a good child carer will be happy to answer any questions you have. Take up references where possible; talk to other parents and ask to speak with as many staff as possible.
Childcare within the home
Childcare ‘within the home’ is not subject to the registration process and is classed as unregistered childcare. Nannies and Mothers’ Helps are examples of such care and are usually found through an agency. The agency may charge you to register on their books and make a further charge if you ultimately choose someone from their ‘register’. However, before you register ask what checks are made on the people they employ/have on their books (e.g., Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), qualifications and references).
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