Reciprocal childcare
Source: NCMA press office (02/01/2010)
Following the Secretary of State's announcement that reciprocal
childcare arrangements between friends will be excluded from
childcare regulation, NCMA is seeking urgent clarification of the
definition of “reward” in this context.
Andrew Fletcher, Joint Chief Executive of NCMA said:
"While the Secretary of State is seeking to respond to issues
raised in a recent case which received widespread media coverage,
the issue of what constitutes “reward” in childcare arrangements
remains unclear.
“Proportionate regulation of childcare practice is not only an
important part of safeguarding children, but for registered
childminders it plays a role in demonstrating to parents that the
setting and practice is of good quality. While the Secretary of
State's intervention provides what might be considered a sensible
response to an individual case, it is crucial that wider
registration and regulation requirements are not undermined. A
timely and considered definition of what constitutes reward in
childcare arrangements is paramount to ensure that children
continue to benefit from safe and stimulating professional
childminding settings.”