Which Childcare Providers are Eligible?
Under the new rules, to be eligible, the childcare must be provided by a Registered or an Approved Childcare Provider.
What is a Registered Childcare Provider?
In England, Childcare Providers providing care away from the child's home must be registered with OFSTED, if the children are up to and including 7 years old. Registered carers will include most childminders, nurseries, after-school schemes, crèches and most play schemes.
How can I find out if a Childcare Provider is registered?
Your Childcare Provider will be able to give you details of their registration number or a copy of their registration certificate. To check the registration, you can telephone OFSTED direct on 0845 601 4771, or call the Fair Care helpline on 0845 2410 983.
What is an Approved Childcare Provider?
Childcare Providers who are not required to be registered with OFSTED will need to become Approved if they wish to accept Childcare Vouchers. This will include nannies, where the care can be given in the child's own home and some childminders.
How does my Childcare Provider become Approved?
Current carers who fall into this category who are not currently Approved will be able to become Approved through the fast track Childcare Approval Scheme. This is a straightforward process which includes CRB and POCA checks. Go to www.childcareapprovalscheme.co.uk for full details and an application form.
How can I find out if a Childcare Provider is Approved?
Your Childcare Provider will be able to give you details of their Approval number or a copy of their Approval certificate. To check the details, you can telephone Nestor Primecare Services (who are the Government's appointed agent managing the Approval process) on 0845 7678 111 or call the Fair Care helpline on 0845 2410 983.
What if relatives provide the Childcare?
Childcare provided in the child's own home will not qualify if the Childcare Provider is related to the child. Childcare provided by a relative away from the child's home will qualify if the relative is also caring for unrelated children, as long as the Childcare Provider is Registered or Approved. |
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