Community childminding
What exactly is community childminding? Community childminding is a day care resource for children assessed under the Children Act 1989, as being children in need.
The aim of the service is to provide a flexible resource using the special skills of childminders to enable them to work with children and families with the intention of preparing a structured programme for the children which has clear aims and objectives to it.
The Social Services are responsible for paying for the service being offered.
Who can be considered for the work?
The ones who can be considered for this important work are those who are already experienced childminders and who are anxious to use their skills for the benefit of the children and families experiencing periods of difficulty.
What kind of person is likely to become an effective community childminder?
Individuals who offer their service as Community Childminders are likely to be:
- experienced in the field of childminding
- mature, with the ability to persevere with the work
- able to form good relationships with the children and parents
- with a good understanding of the importance of confidentiality
- prepared to commit themselves to further training on a regular basis
- able to work with a variety of professionals for the good of individual children
- prepared to attend case conferences if / when necessary
What support is available for community childminders?
Social Services offer:
- training
- a toy and equipment loan scheme
- a realistic system of payment
- individual support during times of particular difficulty
What are the usual arrangements?
In every case an agreement is drawn up between the different agencies, (including the parents, the childminders and the social workers) about meeting the needs of the family.
Considering community childminding?
If you would like to have more information about the work you should contact the child and day care officers at the Housing and Social Services Department. Please see the contact details above.
