Vehicle registration guidance
The Government has today issued guidance that makes it
clear that registered childminders should not be required to hold a
private hire vehicle licence when they are carrying children as
part of their duties.
This outcome is excellent news for registered childminders
in England and Wales, and will save them from both the significant
financial and time burden of obtaining the licence. NCMA is
delighted to have been able to lobby successfully for members not
to face this financial burden. Fees vary considerably depending on
the local authority, but can be approaching £300.
NCMA has been working closely with the Government over the past
18 months to develop this new guidance to ensure childminders
are not mistakenly required to hold a private hire vehicle licence
by their local authority.
Stuart Turner, Director of Professional Standards at the
National Childminding Association, said: “This guidance will be
welcomed by registered childminders, and will help to ensure they
are not required to hold a private hire vehicle licence when taking
children on the school run or on trips to the park. It's vital that
children can access learning and development opportunities out in
the community, and this guidance will help to ensure childminders
can continue to offer this for children in their care."
The Department for Transport press release announcing the
guidance can be viewed at www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20110803-2 and
the full guidance is available at www.dft.gov.uk/publications/phv-guidance-note.
Please note: This change is applicable to childminders
who use a vehicle with 8 passenger seats or less. However, if you
use a vehicle with 9 passenger seats plus the driver you will need
a PSV operator’s licence. Further details are available
here:
Public Service Vehicle Operator Licensing
(guides for operators) PSV 437
www.vosa.gov.uk
Driving a Minibus
www.direct.gov.uk