Childminders and related children in Wales (English Language version)

PACEY Cymru have been disappointed to learn that Welsh Government have changed the guidance to the Childcare Offer for parents who wish to use a registered childminder who is also a relative. You can read the full story on our website here

What is the change in guidance that has been confirmed for Wales?

The change in guidance comes from a review of the law in relation to the The Child Minding and Day Care Exceptions (Wales) Order 2016.  This Order states that a person who looks after a child under the age of twelve on domestic premises for reward does not act as a child minder if the person is a parent, or a relative of the child or is a foster parent for the child.  The Exceptions Order goes on to define relative as ‘a grandparent, brother, sister, uncle or aunt (whether of the full blood or the half blood or by marriage or civil partnership) or step parent.’

What was the previous guidance?

The previous guidance provided by Welsh Government, that PACEY Cymru shared and held up as an example of Wales leading the way in order to support childcare sustainability and a proportionate approach, was that a grandparent or other relative could deliver the funded Childcare Offer if the care was provided wholly or mainly outside of the child’s home. 

PACEY Cymru is extremely disappointed in this change in direction.  Though we understand the legalities of it, we strongly believe that a change in the law, or interpretation of this, is needed to ensure childminders can deliver the Childcare Offer going forward to relatives who are not resident with them.

What does this mean?

We are aware of situations where this change in position has meant families with long term private childcare arrangements with childminders are having now to make a choice as to whether to continue with their current private childcare arrangement, and the financial cost of this, or move children to a setting where they can access the funding greatly disrupting continuity of care.  This can be particularly detrimental if the child has a disability or special educational need.  We do not believe this supports key Welsh Government aims around emotional well-being for children or sustainability of childcare provision.

The ban on related children in Wales is unique to childminders; individuals working in or owning a nursery or pre-school are permitted to claim the entitlement for related children.

We have written to the Minister for Children and Social Care and have had a meeting with Welsh Government around this.  They are looking further at the position and any evidence or case studies we can gather will be used to support our lobbying work in Wales. 

If you are a registered childminder in Wales that is:

·         affected by this position currently,

·         are likely to be in the future

·         or have a view on this (even if you are not affected)

we would be grateful if you would complete this short survey which should not take more than 10 minutes .  All views shared will be treated in confidence.  You can also contact us on paceycymru@pacey.org.uk to share any specific concerns, queries or experiences.