Look for childcare
Childminders are self-employed to offer childcare in their own homes (rather than in the child's home). Most offer services to both under fives and school-aged children, although some specialise in a particular age group.
They are registered and inspected by Ofsted.
Many parents choose a childminder as they need additional flexibility due to their work patterns or so that their child will be cared for in a small group in a home environment.
Childminders choose their own working hours but, in Swindon, they're strongly encouraged to offer flexible services to parents including:
- early mornings
- late evenings
- overnight stays
- weekends
- bank holidays
- times to accommodate shift patterns
Home childcarers
These differ from childminders as they are registered by Ofsted to provide childcare in the child's home.
Parents employing a home childcarer have responsibilities as employers, for matters such as appropriate insurance and PAYE.
Further information
If you are looking for information about how to become a registered childminder in Swindon, please see the Early Years Hub website.
If you are looking for a local childcare provider, visit our Family Information Directory.