Government reveal new child care scheme

The a new government scheme has been unveiled today to approve childcare that takes place within a child's own home.

The 'Home Childcarer Approval Scheme' will enable parents, for the first time, to employ, a home child carer who is suitably qualified to work with children and has had relevant background checks carried out by Health and Social Services Trusts.

The scheme will also entitle parents to apply for financial aid with the cost of employing an approved childcarer through Working Tax Credits and childcare vouchers.

Speaking earlier, at the launch of the scheme, Health Minister Shaun Woodward said: "Every parent wants to provide a safe and familiar environment for their children. For many working families, finding conventional childcare that meets their needs can be very difficult. This new scheme will provide flexibility for parents who, for example, work outside traditional working hours, or who have children with disabilities or larger families.

"The scheme will help these families to access safe, good quality childcare provision that is eligible for financial help through tax credits and childcare vouchers.

The Minister continued by saying that the background checks, which will be carried out on the prospective childminders will give parents a degree of reassurance and provide a good starting point when selecting home childcare for their children.

The Minister concluded by highlighting how the scheme will enhance the quality of childcare in the home and said that being a home childcarer is a highly rewarding career that offers professional recognition while providing children with safe, quality care and play and learning opportunities that will really help their development.

(EF/SP)