LSCBs given advice on how to support childminders

The National Childminding Association (NCMA) advice Supporting childminders has been developed in partnership with the Department for Education and sets out how LSCBs can help childminders with their safeguarding responsibilities.

The guidance encourages LSCBs to spend time establishing relationships with registered childminders and provide accessible training that relates to the local authority’s policy and procedures.

It also advises LSCBs to publicise up to date information and support, share information and provide clear contact points for childminders.

Stuart Turner, director of professional standards at NCMA, said: "Registered childminders have a high level of one-to-one interaction with a child, and as they are often the sole childcare professional in their setting, they are in a particularly vital position to spot any concerns about a child’s welfare.

"Close ties with LSCBs play a crucial role in ensuring childminders can fulfil their statutory duty to report any concerns they have about a child's situation. This new guidance will help LSCBs to audit their practice and consider the current support and communication channels open to registered childminders in safeguarding children."