Childminder sets up independent support group

The Independent Childminders' Focus Group has been set up by childminder Simona McKenzie in response to concerns that agencies could drive up costs for staff and jeopardise professional autonomy.

The Department for Education is understood to be holding talks with childminders to agree how the new agencies will operate in practice. But McKenzie said independent childminders needed to protect their status and take responsibility for ensuring that parents understand the full range of childcare options available.

She said childminders are concerned that agencies could charge childminders high fees for registering, and that plans for Ofsted to cease inspecting agency-registered childminders could confuse parents.

“This raises numerous concerns about quality and potentially a two-tier service,” said McKenzie. “The aim of the focus group is to attract as many childminders as possible so that we are absolutely crystal clear as to the meaning of remaining independent, costs related to registration and individual inspections. We will also seek clarification on the implications of registering with an agency.”

McKenzie said the national group was non-campaigning and non-political, and would help parents understand the differences between agency registered and non-agency registered childminders.

The group has been endorsed by Denise Burke, director of United for All Ages and the Good Care Guide.

“It's a worrying time for childminders especially those who want to remain independent and not join one of the proposed childminder agencies,” said Burke.

“The focus group will provide a much-needed forum at this time of uncertainty. Many childminders want to continue to be directly inspected by Ofsted, set their own fees and manage vacancies.

“I fully support the focus group and hope that childminders will feel able to share their concerns through it.”

The DfE intends to pilot childminding agencies later this year. The first agencies will be open by 2014.