Registering and Running a Childminding Service: What You Need to Know

You can also visit our knowledge and improvement website The Hub, for a wide range of resources.Planning permission You will need to check you are allowed to run a childminding business from your home. [...] When completing the application form, you will be asked to provide information and documentation in support of your application. [...] This is because we need to ensure that you have the right skills, knowledge and experience to care for children and that your home is a safe environment. [...] Fitness checks We will ask you for information so we can carry out a range of checks to ensure you are of good character and integrity. [...] This is because we need to make sure you are a suitable person for the role of a childminder. [...] It is essential that you are aware of your duty to protect the children in your care. [...] We will assess your understanding of what to do if you have concerns about the protection of a child. [...] Please be assured our inspectors want to engage positively and find out about the good work you do with children and families. We will always be respectful that you offer a service from your home. [...] You need to tell the people who use your service that you are planning to stop childminding and give us three months’ notice (unless we agree a shorter period with you). [...] If we uphold a complaint, we will either recommend or require you to take action to improve the quality of care and service you are providing.