Childminding is changing

The National Action Plan for Childminding sets out a phased approach towards regulation, supports, and subsidies, for all paid, non-relative childminders. The Action Plan will involve change with significant benefits for childminders, children and the families using their services.

Who is the plan for? 

In the Action Plan, a childminder is defined as a self-employed person who single-handedly cares for an individual or small group of children in the childminder’s own home. Childminders are self-employed, agree their own fees, terms, and conditions with parents, and they are responsible for their own tax arrangements.

What is the purpose of the plan? 

The aim of the Action Plan is to:

• provide greater recognition for childminding at home, and
• support childminders in their work of providing high quality early learning and care and school age childcare, thus helping families, and supporting child development and learning outcomes.