Early Learning and Childcare Service

Childcare Information Pack 2017

May 2017

Contents This E-information pack has been put together to assist you through the registration process. It contains web links to various organisations that will support or assist you in your child-minding business, Ofsted information and information that has been put together by the 0-5 Learning Service.

• Contact Details Useful contacts to assist you in your business

• EYFS and Ofsted Application

How to obtain the EYFS and Ofsted on-line Ofsted application

• Childminders starting in Business Links to HM Revenue and Custom who provide advice on starting up your business Links to the Early Learning website for business advice

• Training

How to access ‘Understand how to set up a Home based Childcare Service’,

• Ofsted Guidance Information available from Ofsted, to support you in meeting requirements

• Policy Guidance Guidance on policies needed for a Childminding business Safeguarding Publications – ‘Working together to Safeguard Children’ - ‘What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused’ - ‘Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility’ Safeguarding Competency Framework Safeguarding Policy Guidance/mobile phone, camera and internet policy Complaints - How to meet the EYFS requirements for working with parents to resolve complaints. Parental Responsibility Risk Assessments. Guidance on Infection Control including notifiable diseases*. This is a fact sheet you can access via the Public Health England website – www.gov.uk/phe. It also includes a section where notifiable diseases are highlighted with a *. You need to be aware of these and know how and where to report.

• Fire Safety in Houses or Flats used for Childminding.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Once you have had a Home Safety Visit, you may find the following additional information useful

• ‘About Me’ form – a basic form you can use or adapt to enable you to collect information on children’s preferences.

• Ofsted Their website has a raft of information on good practice. Reading other childminders inspection reports will also provide an idea of Ofsted’s expectations for quality childcare.

• The Early Years Foundation Stage: a Parent’s Guide Under the EYFS you will have a duty to inform parents about the EYFS. This document enables you to do this in a simple clear way.

• Nursery Milk Scheme Registered Childminders can claim 1/3 pint of milk for each day children under the age of 5yrs. to access a claim form go onto www.nurserymilk.co.uk . You may be approached by companies that also do this but you will have to pay. This is the official Nursery Milk Reimbursement Unit [NMRU] website.

• What is a Learning Journey? Brief information on a ‘Learning Journey’. Childcare providers use these as a assessable way to show how a child is progressing and their interests. Support will be given from an Improvement Advisor once you are registered.

• Early Help

• Inclusion KIDS inclusion framework ‘All of us – the Framework for Quality Inclusion’. Improving practice for children and young people in childcare and play settings www.kids.org.uk

• Anycomms + Secure file transfer system

• Free Early Education Entitlement [FEEE] Funding for 3 and 4 year olds that childcare providers can access once registered.

• Early Years Pupil Premium http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/eypp

• SEND Local Offer http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/local-offer (resources for professionals) www.leicestershire.gov.uk/local-offer (information for the public)

Last Reviewed: May 2017

• The Information Commissioners Office [ICO] Explains about keeping other peoples [children’s] personal information ---

• Food Standards Agency Details on how to obtain a copy of ‘Safer Food, Better Business for Childminders’ – www.food.gov.uk Children’s Food Trust – ‘Eat Better, Start Better Guidelines ‘free resource. www.childrensfoodtrust.org.uk/childrens-food-trust/earlyyears

• Menphys Menphys is an organisation that supports the inclusion of children into childcare and will specifically support childminders. www.menphys.org.uk

• Toy Libraries There are a number of toy libraries in Leicestershire full of toys and resources for childminders to borrow in order to provide a variety of activities for the children they look after, without having to buy new equipment.

• Childminding Support Groups Groups across the County that childminders can join.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Useful Contact Information LCC Provider Helpline 0116 3057136 0-5 Learning Service contact number for all enquiries/queries regarding setting up and continued support following registration Local Planning Department It is important to check whether planning permission is needed before you start childminding. District councils Blaby 0116 275 0555 Charnwood 01509 263151 Harborough 01858 828282 Hinckley and Bosworth 01455 238141 Melton 01664 502502 North West Leicestershire 01530 454545 Oadby and Wigston 0116 288 8961 It is advisable to check with your Landlord, Housing Association, Building Society, Commanding Officer (Army) that you are able to childmind from your property. http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/earlylearning Early Learning and Childcare website www.lullabytrust.org.uk – Safer Sleep and Sudden Infant Death (cot death) Information http://think.direct.gov.uk/ - Road safety information www.pacey.org.uk - Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years website www.mortonmichel.com – Childcare Insurance specialist www.pre-school.org.uk - Leading educational charity specialising in the early years www.gov.uk/ofsted - All the latest news and regulations from Ofsted Ofsted helpline – 0300 1231231 www.capt.org.uk - Child accident prevention trust website http://llrscb.proceduresonline.com/index.htm - Local safeguarding Children board procedures http://www.rospa.com/road-safety/resources/free/parents/carrying-other-peoples-children-safely/ - A guide to principles and practices for Childminders carrying other people’s children in cars www.nspcc.org.uk – National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. www.thinkuknow.co.uk – Information about child exploitation and internet safety.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Environmental Health Department Information All childminders registering with Ofsted will have their details passed to the Local Authority, who in turn will pass your contact details onto the Environmental Health, in the district you reside in. This enables Environmental Health to register you as a food business, if you are providing snacks/meals for children. The Foods Standards Agency – www.food.gov.uk/business-industry/caterers/startingup have more information for childminders as well as free resources. PACEY / PLA / MORTON MICHEL support organisations who have public liability insurance/documentation/other resources. www.nspcc.org.uk – Fantastic site with information on keeping children safe, child abuse, managing children’s behaviour positively.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

EYFS and Ofsted Application Forms The Early Years Foundation stage is the statutory framework that childcare providers need to follow if children will be attending aged from birth to the end of the academic year in which the child has their fifth birthday The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) The Early Years Foundation Stage consists of the following three documents:-

- The Statutory Framework for the EYFS - Development Matters in the EYFS - A Know How Guide – the EYFS progress check at two

All three can be downloaded FREE from http://www.foundationyears.org.uk/eyfs-statutory-framework/ You can also subscribe free to updates from the foundation years and any new documents will be on this site too. Your childminding application forms are available to download from Ofsted You must apply for Ofsted registration online via the following website link; https://www.gov.uk/register-childminder-childcare-provider Your Childcare Sufficiency and Safeguarding Officer will offer you guidance and advice about implementing the EYFS, and there is additional support available from the 0-5 Learning service to help practitioners become familiar with the framework

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Childminders Starting in Business Business Planning

Business support is available through our Business Development Advisors and includes:

• market research

• marketing

• business planning

• financial planning and

• details on types of businesses

http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/education-and-children/early-learning-and-childcare/setting-up-and-running-a-childcare-business/business-support

Her Majesty’s Revenue Customs (HMRC)

Do you know

• how to register your self-employment

• what records to keep

• what expenses and allowances you can claim

• when to pay your tax and national insurance?

The www.hmrc.gov.uk gives help and support to new and growing business through videos, webinars and e-learning.

Gov.uk

Offers advice and information for all new business start-ups including:

• how to get funding

• researching your market

• setting up as a sole trader or other types of business

• writing a plan

The service also offers a business support helpline on 0300 4563565

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Preparing to Work in Home-Based Childcare Award (HBCA)

This course is recommended for prospective childminders who have not already completed training which helps you understand and implement the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This needs to be completed before applying for Ofsted registration. It is a stand-alone unit worth 4 credits within the Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce. Upon completion you will receive a certificate. Details on how to apply for funding (up to £200) to access this course from the training suppliers below will be provided by the Childcare Sufficiency and Safeguarding Officer at the Pathways to Childminder Registration session. A £50 payment is required to access the grant (refundable after Ofsted registration). In order to qualify for this funding, candidates must provide evidence that they hold either a GCSE/O Level English Language at Grade A*-C or English Literacy at Level 2.

Name Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY)

Address Royal Court 81 Tweedy Road Bromley Kent. BR1 1TG

Telephone 0845 880 0044

Website HBCA

E Mail Training@PACEY.org.uk

Course details

• This course is online learning so you study on your own at your own pace at home

Last Reviewed: May 2017

A selection of guides and handbooks are available online www.gov.uk/ofsted , these are examples;

Early years and childcare registration handbook Published: July 2016 ____________________________________________________________________

Common Inspection Framework Published: August 2015

Inspecting Safeguarding in Early years Education and Skills Setting Handbook Published: August 2016

____________________________________________________________________

Early years Inspection Handbook Published: August 2015 ____________________________________________________________________

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Policies and procedures Policies and procedures explain how you operate as a childminder to keep children safe, healthy and secure. A policy is a written statement about how you will work in one area of your practice A procedure is the actions you will take to carry out the policy The Early Years Foundation Stage Welfare Requirements states that although childminders are not required to have written policies, they must be able to explain their policies and procedures to parents, carers and others (for example Ofsted inspectors) and ensure any assistants follow them. The Child Care Register requires childminders to have their safeguarding children procedure, complaints procedure and record of complaints to be in writing. The following list of policies and procedures are recommended by the Early Years foundation Stage: Accident and emergency What you will do in the event of accidents and emergencies. The procedures you will take to ensure the safety of the children in your care when accidents occur, includes procedures for taking children to hospital and contacting responsible adults. Alcohol How you will protect the children in your care from harm caused by alcohol and other drugs. Behaviour How you manage the behaviour of children in your care. Your policy on setting limits for acceptable behaviour in your home, and your procedures for creating a safe and happy environment that encourages positive behaviour. Includes statements on working in partnership with parents to agree boundaries for their children and the steps you will take to manage challenging behaviour.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Complaints Required in writing for the childcare register. How you deal with complaints from parents about your provision. Includes the procedures you will take to ensure detailed records of all complaints are kept and made available to Ofsted if required. Confidentiality How you protect and manage personal information about the families you work for. How information will be stored and shared safely, including records of incidents that may lead to insurance claims. Emergency Evacuation Procedure for evacuating the premises in the event of a fire or other emergency. Food and drink Your policy for the provision and handling of food in your childcare service, includes procedures for preparing and serving food, ensuring good hygiene and dealing with outbreaks of food poisoning. Illness and infectious diseases Managing instances of sickness, and the hygiene procedures that help to prevent them. How you will deal with an outbreak of an infectious disease in you home, including procedures for contacting parents of all children in your care, includes procedures for ensuring good hygiene in the home. Inclusion Ensuring that diversity is respected, and an inclusive attitude is shown by and to all adults and children in contact with your childcare service. Challenging discriminatory behaviour and providing toys and books that promotes positive images of diversity. Medicines Managing, storing and administering medicines to children in your care, ensuring parental permission to administer medicines is given, and that all information about the use of medicines is recorded properly. Outings Ensuring trips and outings are safe and properly managed. Includes procedures for ensuring that risk assessments and trial runs are undertaken, parental permission is obtained and details of all vehicles involved are recorded.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Safeguarding children Required in writing for the childcare register. Your policy for ensuring that children in your care are kept safe from harm. Your knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance, including details of your local Safeguarding Children Board. Procedures for raising concerns about safeguarding issues with parents, and what you should look out for. How you will act if you suspect that a child in your care is suffering abuse, also including allegations against yourself or a member of your family and covers the use of mobile phones and cameras. Smoking Your policy on keeping the childcare environment smoke-free and protecting children from the harmful effects of smoke. Use of crèches Your policy for using crèches for children in your care. The situations when this might be necessary, and how you will ensure that the crèche is a safe and appropriate environment. Working with parents Ensuring positive relationships with the parents whose children you care for. Procedures for contracts and record-keeping; maintaining good communication with parents and resolving disagreements; sharing Ofsted reports and incident records Uncollected Child In an event of a parent failing to collect a child at the appointed time. Missing Child Procedure to follow in the event of a child going missing.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Working together to safeguard children A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children

March 2015

This document is available online at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children--2

What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused Advice for practitioners

March 2015

This document is available online at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/what-to-do-if-youre-worried-a-child-is-being-abused--2

Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland’s Safeguarding

Children Learning

Page 1 of 4

http://lrsb.org.uk/uploads/the-competency-framework

What is the Competency Framework?

The Safeguarding Children Competency Framework is for use by the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Children’s Workforce to support individuals and organisations to undertake their safeguarding roles and responsibilities in a committed, confident and competent manner.

There is an expectation that organisations will ensure that all staff providing a service are

able to respond to concerns in line with local and national agendas.1

Some individuals will work in settings which provide both universal and specialist services for Children and Adults. It is the responsibility of the organisation to determine the knowledge and learning that is required.

This Competency Framework is for use by:

The Children’s Workforce defined as “….everyone who works or volunteers with children and young people and their families, or who is responsible for improving their outcomes.” 2

Adult Workforce Practitioners who may be in a position to contribute to assessments ofparenting capacity.”

Workforces that support a ‘Whole Family’ approach.3

‘Wider workforce’ and other individuals, who have contact with children and theirfamilies in their role, however do not work directly with children or their families: i.e.Housing maintenance staff, environmental health officers, receptionists of communitycentres etc, where there is a responsibility to safeguard both adults and children.

Childminder Safeguarding Children Policy Guidance

Childminders must have and implement safeguarding policies and procedures, however these are not required to be written as a requirement of the EYFS. You must be able to explain your safeguarding policy and procedures. It is a requirement of the Childcare Register to have a written Safeguarding Policy and Procedure document. Points to include in your safeguarding policy:

• Your priority is to ensure that children in your care are kept safe from harm. • Inform parents how you will keep children safe whilst in your care. Include

information about what records you keep: accident, incident and pre existing injuries.

• How you will act if you have concerns about a child in your care. • You follow procedure of your Local Safeguarding Children Board which are

available on www.lrsb.org.uk and have copies of the national publication: What to do if you are worried a child is being abused and local safeguarding children’s board leaflets. You will keep updated with any changes in legislation.

• Your awareness of the signs and symptoms of abuse by undertaking regular safeguarding training (every 3 years) and keeping copies of relevant books and guidance.

• Any allegations made about you or a member of your family will be reported to Ofsted and the Local Authority Designated Officer 0116 305 7597.

• Use of mobile phones, cameras and internet. Information for parents and children about how to keep children safe when using the internet; what to do if you have concerns about what children are viewing and how.

• You follow procedure given in Departmental advice for schools and childcare providers on the Prevent Duty available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/protecting-children-from-radicalisation-the-prevent-duty

The procedure you will follow (how you will act) if you have concerns about a child in your care. For further information see Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage – Section 3 – The Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements, Pages 16 and 17.

• Inform parents that you have a responsibility to report concerns not to investigate the situation.

• Any concerns about a child will be reported for advice and assessment to:

Leicestershire First Response: 0116 3050005 www.leicestershire.gov.uk/firstresponse Leicester City Social Care Duty Team: 0116 2527004 or Leicestershire Police: 0116 2222222 and Ofsted : 0300 1231231 Advice line for professionals: 0116 305 5500

Last Reviewed: May 2017

• When you would or wouldn’t discuss your concerns with parents. • What you will do if a child tells you that they, or another child, is being abused. • What you will do if you, or a member of your family, have an allegation of

abuse made. Guidance on producing policies on the use of mobile phones, cameras and internet in your setting Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage 3.4 Child Protection. Having a statement about the settings use of mobile phones, cameras and internet does not prevent child abuse. Staff still need to have knowledge and the responsibility for the Safeguarding policy of the setting, including whistle blowing. What your policy could include:

• Staff’s use of their own personal mobile within the setting. o Where are they to be kept when at work? o When can staff make personal calls? o What if they are expecting an emergency call?

• If the setting has no land line and uses a mobile phone or a mobile phone us

used for outing, how is this used/stored?

• Camera’s – How/why/when photos will be taken of children/where stored and for how long. Is setting camera used?

o Photo permission form to be produced for parents? o Special events/open days

• Parents use of their mobiles in the setting

o Are long/loud conversations an issue? o Parents taking photos on their phone of children, other than their own,

are around

• Children bringing their own phones to the setting. Children in OOS should be part of the process in putting together a policy.

• Children taking their own photos. Either on the setting camera(s) or using

their own phone.

• Information for parents and children about how to keep children safe when using the internet; what to do if you have concerns about what children are viewing and how children can keep themselves safe.

This list is not exhaustive and your policy must reflect what happens in your setting. Consultation with children and parents on policies is good practice, providing an opportunity for feedback on areas you might not have thought of. Policy guidance available: http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/oos

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Complaints Policy Guidance For further information see Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage, Section 3, pages 33. Points to include:

• Work in partnership with parents to meet the needs of the children and aim to establish good relationships with parents through open communication.

• Parents are encouraged to discuss any concerns they may have with you to

hopefully resolve any issues.

• Inform parents that it is a condition of registration that you will investigate all written complaints within 28 days.

• Let parents know that if a complaint cannot be resolved or is of a serious nature

they should contact Ofsted on 0300 1231231.

• You will keep a written record of all complaints and the outcome for at least 3 years if it applies to the Early Years Register or 2 years for the Childcare Register.

• Any records of complaints will be made available to parents and Ofsted on

request.

• Details of how to contact Ofsted directly will be displayed in the childminder’s setting.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Provider complaints record and how to complete the complaints record How to complete the complaints record

You are not required to use this complaints record, if you wish you may use a different form but it must include all the information held in this version. Ofsted will check your complaints record. When completing the record bear in mind it must be shared with any parent who asks to see it as well as with Ofsted. It is important to maintain appropriate confidentiality when filling in the record. This means that you should not name the person making the complaint or any persons (adults and children) that relate to the complaint. A. Source of complaint Indicate the source of the complaint by √ the appropriate box. Where Ofsted carries out an investigation into your continued suitability to provide childcare following a complaint, they will tell you the outcome of their investigation. In these circumstances you should enter Ofsted as the source. B. Nature of complaint Record √ one or more of the welfare requirements to which the complaint refers followed by details associated with the complaint, taking care not to name individuals. For example, use ‘child A’, staff member B’. C. How it was dealt with Provide information on how you investigated the complaint, recording: the process taken to ensure the complaint was fully investigated, such as interviews, reviews of

records. who was involved in the investigation without identifying any individuals names in the complaint,

including staff or any child. any referrals you made to an external agency, for example Local Authority First Response team D. Actions and outcomes Provide details about the outcome of your investigation recording: any action(s) identified by you. any actions set or taken by Ofsted. any action taken by another external agency the outcome of your investigation, identifying areas where you feel you could make improvement to

your provision and your plans to put these in place if you dismissed any members of staff following the investigation and if so, under what

circumstances. If you have dismissed a member of staff for misconduct, because they placed a child at risk of significant harm, you will need to notify the Disclosure and Barring Service www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service

You must share an account of the findings of your investigation and the actions, if any, that you took or you intend to take as a result of your investigations with the parents who made the complaint, and at the request of any parent of a child in your care at the setting. You must do this within 28 days from the date the complaint was made. You can do this by sharing this record. If they ask, or if you think it is appropriate, you should send a separate letter to the parent who made the complaint, giving more detail.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Provider complaints record

Date of complaint: A: Source of complaint Parent (in writing, including email)5

Parent (in person) Parent (phone call)

Staff member Anonymous Ofsted (include complaint number if known) Other (please state)

B: Nature of complaint (please tick all boxes that the complaint relates to)

EY Register

Section 1 : The Learning and Development Requirements

Section 2 : Assessment Section 3 : The Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements Compulsory Register Voluntary Register

Please give details of the complaint:

Last Reviewed: May 2017

C: How it was dealt with Internal investigation Investigation by Ofsted Investigation by other agencies (please state)

Please give details of any internal investigation or attach any outcome letter from Ofsted: D: Actions and outcomes Internal actions Actions agreed with Ofsted Changes to conditions of registration Other action taken by Ofsted No action Actions imposed or agreed with other agencies

Please give details: Has a copy of this record been shared with parents? Yes / No Name of recorder:

Outcome notified to parent: Yes (within 28 days for EY Register and Voluntary /Compulsory Registers)6 Date:

Position: Name: Signature:

Date Completed:

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Parental Responsibility

1989 Children Act This Act was a landmark law, redefining the relationship between parent and child. It changed the previous emphasis from one of duty and rights of the parent to one of responsibilities. The Act uses the concept of ‘parental responsibility’ to describe the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authority parents have for their child. In this Act, a child is a person under the age of 18. Parental responsibility means being responsible for: Your child’s wellbeing Looking after your child Feeding and clothing your child Making decisions about their schooling Deciding whether to consent to medical treatment Representing them in legal proceedings Making decisions about where to live Making decisions about their religious upbringing

The law sets out who has parental responsibility. You have it automatically if you are: The biological mother of the child The biological father of the child, and were married to the mother at the

time of conception or birth, or you married the mother after the birth of the child.

You are adoptive parents once an adoption order is made. Even if the marriage breaks down, both father and mother will continue to have parental responsibility. Unmarried fathers did not have the same rights and responsibilities as a married father. However a new Act, the Adoption and Children Act 2002, now gives an unmarried father parental responsibility where he and the mother register the birth of their child together, but the Act is not retrospective, so unmarried fathers with children born before 1st December 2003 can still only get parental responsibility agreement, either by: Making an agreement with the mother Or by applying to the court for a parental responsibility order. Unmarried couples wishing to obtain a parental responsibility agreement have to: Obtain a form from a solicitor or family court Go in person to the local Magistrates Court or County Court to get it signed Send it to the Principal Registry of the Family Division.

(Childcare Act 2016: Parental Responsibility has the same meaning as in the Children Act 1989)

Parent Responsibility

The Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage 2014, asks that providers hold certain information on persons who have parental responsibility. For further clarification see Section 3 ‘The safeguarding and welfare requirements’ 3.72. Therefore, could you please complete the form below, prior to your child(ren) being admitted into my care. If there are subsequent changes to these details please let me know immediately. Name of child: ……………………………………………………………………………………… Date of birth: ………………………………………………………………………………………… Parent / Carer 1 Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Relationship: …………………………………………………………………………………………….. Legal contact Yes No Parental responsibility Yes No Parent / Carer 2 Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Relationship: …………………………………………………………………………………………….. Legal contact Yes No Parental responsibility Yes No Parent / Carer 3 Name: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… Relationship: …………………………………………………………………………………………….. Legal contact Yes No Parental responsibility Yes No Form completed by: ……………………………………………………………………………….

EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

THE SAFEGUARDING AND WELFARE REQUIREMENTS

RISK ASSESSMENTS 3.64 AND 3.65

Providers must ensure that they take all reasonable steps to ensure staff and children in their care are not exposed to risks and must be able to demonstrate how they are managing risks

31. Providers must determine where it is helpful to make some written risk

assessments in relation to specific issues, to inform staff practice, and to demonstrate how they are managing risks if asked by parents and/or carers or inspectors. Risk assessments should identify aspects of the environment that need to be checked on a regular basis, when and by whom those aspects will be checked, and how the risk will be removed or minimised.

Children must be kept safe while on outings. Providers must assess the risks or hazards which may arise for the children, and must identify the steps to be taken to remove, minimise and manage those risks and hazards. The assessment must include consideration of adult to child ratios. The risk assessment does not necessarily need to be in writing; this is for providers to judge.

The following risk assessment audit and templates may be useful where you have identified a written risk assessment is required.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Home Safety Audit

It is a requirement of the EYFS and Childcare Register, that you provide a safe and healthy environment for the children in your care. You need to be able to assess and manage risks. It is your responsibility to do this on a regular basis. You can use this home safety audit form to help you carry out a written risk assessment of your working environment. The risk assessment should cover all areas that you will be working in, including the garden and car. If you identify any hazards you will want to deal with them before you admit children to that area. The checklist covers many common safety hazards found in family homes. It is not exhaustive, and you may identify other risks, which you should include in your risk assessment or add to the form. Once you have completed a risk assessment, keep the list on file and review it to ensure you have carried out any tasks that you identified needed doing during the assessment. Many of the risks relate to working with young children and babies and, when carrying out the assessment, you should consider the ages and stages of development of the children you care for. For example, if you are only caring for older children, you may allow them access to the stairs while, with younger children, you may use a stair gate or prevent access to the stairs by ensuring doors are kept shut. You should also carry out a visual check of your home every day but, once every six to twelve months, you should complete this written assessment of your working environment. The checklists provided are not exhaustive as every home is different and space is provided for you to add additional potential risks which you have identified in your setting but which may be less common, for example, if someone in your family is licensed to keep guns on the premises.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Please complete this home safety audit before the Childcare Sufficiency and Safeguarding Officer carries out your home safety check. This audit should be reviewed if changes take place and at least annually. Name of Childminder: Date of Home Safety Audit:

Living, Sleeping and Play Areas Area for Review Date

Checked Issues Identified Date Actioned

Toys or equipment Are they clean? Do they meet current safety standards?

Heat sources Are fireplaces accessible to children? Are radiators too hot to touch and need protection?

Stairs Are the stairs and banisters safe? Is access limited where appropriate?

Dangerous items Are dangerous items such as alcohol, matches, plastic bags or poisonous plants out of children’s reach?

Flooring Are rugs and carpets secure?

Doorways and windows Are locks secure? Are fire exits clear? Are curtain cords out of reach? Has all low-level glass been made safe?

Electrical Items Are electrical sockets accessible to young children? Are leads kept out of reach?

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Kitchen, Eating Areas and Utility Rooms Area for Review Date

Checked Issues Identified Date Actioned

Pets Are pet food and/or litter trays inaccessible to children. Are pets kept away from food preparation areas?

Dangerous items Are knifes, cleaning products, matches etc. inaccessible to children? How are they protected from touching the oven when in use?

Electrical items Are flexes from kettles, irons inaccessible? Are washing machines etc. made safe?

Rubbish Is waste inaccessible to children?

Furniture Are children’s high chairs in good condition with appropriate safety harness in use?

Fridge Is food correctly stored, in date etc.

Bathroom

Area for Review Date Checked

Issues Identified Date Actioned

Dangerous items Are cleaning fluids, razor blades, toiletries and toilet brushes kept out of reach?

Fixtures & fittings Are baths, shower trays and floors safe? Do children have correct equipment, such as a step for the sink? Is the water temperature safe?

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Hygiene Are nappies disposed of safely? Do children have their own flannels, towels and sponges? Are these changed regularly?

Gardens and other Outdoor areas

Area for Review Date Checked

Issues Identified Date Actioned

Pets and other animals Is the garden free from animal waste?

Play equipment Is the outdoor play equipment in good condition? Is play equipment sited on a soft surface in an appropriate area? Are sandpits covered when not in use?

Garden furniture Are tables, chairs etc. in good condition?

Flooring Are paving stones and drainage covers secure? Are steps made safe for young children?

Security Are fences and gates secure?

Planting Are there any poisonous plants in the garden? Are prickly plants in places where children play?

Sheds, garages and outbuildings Are these safe, if children have access to them?

Water Are any water sources, including buckets, made inaccessible to children when not under your direct supervision?

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Activity/ Aspect of environment

What are the Hazards to Health & Safety

What Risks do they pose and to whom?

Risk Level H/M/L

What precautions have been taken to reduce the

risk?

Risk Level Achieved

H/M/L

What further action is needed to reduce the risk? Or has been taken following any incident: (record date)

Risk Assessment for childminding setting name:____________________________________ on (date) _________________________ Name of person completing: ____________________________________ Childminder’s Signature

Activity/ Aspect of

environment

What are the Hazards to Health & Safety

What Risks do they pose and to whom?

Risk Level H/M/L

What precautions have been taken to reduce the

risk?

Risk Level Achieved

H/M/L

What further action is needed to reduce the

risk? Or has been taken following any incident

(record date) School ‘run’ on foot

Traffic - Road

A Traffic accident Seven children minded aged 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10 years old

M-H

3 year old walking holding buggy. 1 & 2 year olds in buggy with harness fastened + extra clip harness in use. Discuss with school age children – develop agreed “walking rules” (see policy/rules agreed).

L M

Review as stage of children’s development changes – use activities/stories to reinforce children’s awareness.

• Use of wrist strap for 3 year old following incident on 2.10.11

Review rules regularly (termly). – use role play/stories to reinforce awareness. – involve older children in encouraging young children in safe practice e.g. 10 year old holds younger child’s hand

Risk Assessment for childminder setting______________ on (date) __01/09/16_______________ Review date:1-9-17 Name of person completing: _______________________________ Childminder’s Signature ____________________________

NB: Example typed for clarity – normally handwritten Last Reviewed: May 2017

Guidance on infection control in schools and other childcare settings

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/353953/Guidance_on_infection_control_in_schools_11_Sept.pdf

East Midlands PHE Centre

Nottingham City Hospital

0344 225 4524

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Infection or complaint

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Athlete’s foot None Athlete’s foot is not a serious condition. Treatment is recommended

Chickenpox Until all vesicles have crusted over See: Vulnerable Children and Female Staff – Pregnancy

Cold sores, (Herpes simplex) None Avoid kissing and contact with the sores. Cold sores are generally mild and self-limiting

German measles (rubella)* Four days from onset of rash (as per “Green Book”)

Preventable by immunisation (MMR x2 doses). See: Female Staff – Pregnancy

Hand, foot and mouth None Contact your local HPT if a large number of children are affected. Exclusion may be considered in some circumstances

Impetigo Until lesions are crusted and healed, or 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment

Antibiotic treatment speeds healing and reduces the infectious period

Measles* Four days from onset of rash Preventable by vaccination (MMR x2). See: Vulnerable Children and Female Staff – Pregnancy

Molluscum contagiosum None A self-limiting condition

Ringworm Exclusion not usually required Treatment is required

Roseola (infantum) None None

Scabies Child can return after first treatment

Household and close contacts require treatment

Scarlet fever* Child can return 24 hours after starting appropriate antibiotic

Antibiotic treatment is recommended for the affected

Last Reviewed: May 2017

treatment child

Infection or complaint

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Slapped cheek/fifth disease. Parvovirus B19

None (once rash has developed) See: Vulnerable Children and Female Staff – Pregnancy

Shingles Exclude only if rash is weeping and cannot be covered

Can cause chickenpox in those who are not immune, ie have not had chickenpox. It is spread by very close contact and touch. If further information is required, contact your local PHE centre. See: Vulnerable Children and Female Staff – Pregnancy

Warts and verrucae None Verrucae should be covered in swimming pools, gymnasiums and changing rooms

Diarrhoea and/or vomiting 48 hours from last episode of diarrhoea or vomiting

E. coli O157 VTEC Typhoid* [and paratyphoid*] (enteric fever) Shigella (dysentery)

Should be excluded for 48 hours from the last episode of diarrhoea. Further exclusion may be required for some children until they are no longer excreting

Further exclusion is required for children aged five years or younger and those who have difficulty in adhering to hygiene practices. Children in these categories should be excluded until there is evidence of microbiological clearance. This guidance may also apply to some contacts who may also require microbiological clearance. Please consult your local PHE centre for further advice

Cryptosporidiosis Exclude for 48 hours from the last episode of diarrhoea

Exclusion from swimming is advisable for two weeks after the diarrhoea has settled

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Infection or complaint

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Tuberculosis* Always consult your local PHE centre

Requires prolonged close contact for spread

Whooping cough* (pertussis) Five days from starting antibiotic treatment, or 21 days from onset of illness if no antibiotic treatment

Preventable by vaccination. After treatment, non-infectious coughing may continue for many weeks. Your local PHE centre will organise any contact tracing necessary

Conjunctivitis None If an outbreak/cluster occurs, consult your local PHE centre

Diphtheria * Exclusion is essential. Always consult with your local HPT

Family contacts must be excluded until cleared to return by your local PHE centre. Preventable by vaccination. Your local PHE centre will organise any contact tracing necessary

Glandular fever None Head lice None Treatment is recommended only

in cases where live lice have been seen

Hepatitis A* Exclude until seven days after onset of jaundice (or seven days after symptom onset if no jaundice)

In an outbreak of hepatitis A, your local PHE centre will advise on control measures

Hepatitis B*, C*, HIV/AIDS None Hepatitis B and C and HIV are bloodborne viruses that are not infectious through casual contact. For cleaning of body fluid spills see: Good Hygiene Practice

Meningococcal meningitis*/ septicaemia*

Until recovered Meningitis C is preventable by vaccination There is no reason to exclude siblings or other close contacts of a case. In case of an outbreak, it may be necessary to provide antibiotics with or without meningococcal vaccination to close school contacts. Your local PHE centre will advise on any action is needed

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Infection or complaint

Recommended period to be kept away from school, nursery or childminders

Comments

Meningitis* due to other bacteria Until recovered Hib and pneumococcal meningitis are preventable by vaccination. There is no reason to exclude siblings or other close contacts of a case. Your local PHE centre will give advice on any action needed

Meningitis viral* None Milder illness. There is no reason to exclude siblings and other close contacts of a case. Contact tracing is not required

MRSA None Good hygiene, in particular handwashing and environmental cleaning, are important to minimise any danger of spread. If further information is required, contact your local PHE centre

Mumps* Exclude child for five days after onset of swelling

Preventable by vaccination (MMR x2 doses)

Threadworms None Treatment is recommended for the child and household contacts

Tonsillitis None There are many causes, but most cases are due to viruses and do not need an antibiotic

* denotes a notifiable disease. It is a statutory requirement that doctors report a notifiable disease to the proper officer of the local authority (usually a consultant in communicable disease control). In addition, organisations may be required via locally agreed arrangements to inform their local PHE centre. Regulating bodies (for example, Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED)/Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI)) may wish to be informed – please refer to local policy.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

About Me

My name ………………………………… What I like to be called …………………………………………………. My age …………………………………… My Birthday is on ………………. People that are important to me ……………………………………………………………. ……………………………………………………………. My favourite thing about being at home is ……………………………………………………….………………………………………………………… What do you do when you get home? What do you like doing best at home? …………………………….………………………………………………………………………………... At home I speak (language): …………………………………………………………. I also use other things to help me communicate (please list Makaton, visual timetable etc) …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….... ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Do you have any pets? …..………………………………………………………………. Do you have any hobbies? ….……………………………………………………………

Photo or drawing of yourself

What do you like to eat and drink? …………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. What don’t you like to eat or drink? ……………………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Do you know if you have any allergies or take any medicines? …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. The name and address of my Doctor is The name and address of my Health Visitor is I sometimes go to the hospital and usually see these people These are the names of some other people I see sometimes (e.g. speech and language therapists, specialist teachers etc) I sometimes need help with my

Hospital name and address: My doctors are:

I have

I regularly take these medicines: Some other important medical information about me includes the following (please outline): Have you been to a Playscheme/Out of School Club before?

Speech

Toileting

Vision

Hearing

Behaviour

Other

Allergies (please outline)

Asthma

Dietary requirements (please outline)

Other needs (please outline)

Walking

My favourite thing about school is…

My least favourite thing my least favourite thing about school is…

What activities do you like to do?

Is there anything you find difficult to do?

What programmes do you like to watch on TV?

What places do you like to visit?

What music/songs/books do you like?

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

Have you been to a play scheme/out of school club before? ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Do you know anybody else who comes here? ………………………….. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Who will be bringing you and picking you up? …………………………. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thank you for filling out our form for us, it helps us to get to know you quicker and understand the things you like and dislike. We hope you have a lovely time here and enjoy coming! Parents signature……………………………………….. Date……………………… Childs signature………………………………………….. Date……………………..

The Revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS); a Parent’s Guide

The Parent’s Guide to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework illustrates how parents/carers can effectively support their child during the foundation years.

The following key questions are answered succinctly and effectively within the eight page document;

• What is the Early Years Foundation Stage?

• What is the EYFS Framework – why do we have one?

• What does it mean for me as a parent?

• As a mum or dad, how can I help with my child’s learning?

• How can I find out how my child is getting on?

• Where can I go for further information?

To ensure messages are consistent and accessible, it is the intention that all providers share this guidance with parents. Parents overwhelmingly expressed a need to be able to access this document electronically. The guide has therefore been designed to be available as a downloadable file and also a printed copy.

Providers can personalise the document and can add further information in ‘free text boxes’ – e.g. by inserting their own logos, aims and messages. This is to give parents more relevant details about the implementation of the EYFS in their child’s setting.

The Parents’Guide to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework can now be downloaded from the Foundation Years website;

http://www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2015/01/EYFS_Parents_Guide-amended1.pdf

Providers are advised to download a copy, personalise it and save it, making it available to parents, electronically as well as in the form of a printed copy. Settings may already have a website where they can make the document available for parents to download or alternatively parents could be emailed a copy of the document as an attachment.

Also available; What to expect, When? - a parent’s guide. This will help parents to find out more about how their child is learning and developing during their first 5 years in relation to the EYFS. This will enable you to fulfil part of your statutory duties as outlined in the EYFS.

http://www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2015/09/4Children_ParentsGuide_Sept_2015v4WEB1.pdf

Last Reviewed: May 2017

What is a Learning Journey?

A learning journey is a record which celebrates a child’s learning, development, progress and experiences. It should tell a story about the individual child - what makes them unique; how they best learn; what they are currently learning; their interests, likes/dislikes; who their friends are and the learning experiences they enjoy. The learning journey should be accessible to both the child and their parents/carers on a daily basis. Thought needs to be given as to the best way of doing this. The learning journey belongs to the child and their parents and should be presented to them upon them leaving the setting/provider. The child’s key person/childminder and family should work together to share pleasure and excitement in the child’s learning and documenting aspects of it. The family should be encouraged to regularly add comments, notes and photographs to the learning journey and to take pleasure in sharing it together. The learning journey is a resource which should be used to further support the child’s learning and development - It provides the opportunity for the child, family and provider to revisit special occasions and memories; it reminds them of important moments and people; and thereby creates a sense of belonging and achievement for the child.

A Learning Journey could include:

Parents’/Child’s and Key Person/Childminder Voices: In addition to adding your own observations and comments to the learning journey, it is important to capture the child’s “voice” – this means listening to the child with all your senses; i.e. what are they telling you verbally, with their body language, eye gaze, facial expressions, etc? Parents/carers should also be encouraged to voice/share their knowledge of their child’s learning and development, current interests, needs or likes/dislikes within the home environment.

Photographs: - Annotated/dated These should capture children’s significant moments and events, interests and explorations. These could be of the child in the setting, at home, taking part in a celebration or special event, etc. You should also add relevant information and comments – these may be your own or taken from the voices of children and/or parents/carers. Observations: - Dated These should contain significant information on what you notice whilst observing the child whilst they are engaged in play – e.g. what they did, who with, what they said, their body language, comments and ideas the child has expressed, etc. The documents Early Years Outcomes or Development Matters should be used to support your judgements on what learning is taking place – include relevant statements to identify which age/stage the child is working at. You should aim to link your observations to the areas of learning in addition to including detail on the Characteristics of Effective Learning.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Children’s “work”: - Annotated/dated This relates to the child’s creations – e.g. their illustrations, marks they make, photographs of models they make, photographs of the child during play. Next Steps: - Possible learning opportunities You should use the information you gather on the child through all the above aspects to identify learning priorities and to help you plan relevant and motivating learning experiences for each individual. Responding to children’s learning could be spontaneous - e.g. changing or adding to the environment in some way - or it could mean planning a future activity or intervention. The documents Early Years Outcomes or Development Matters should be used to support your judgements on what learning is taking place now and to support you in deciding what next steps would be relevant. These should be shared with parents/carers, along with suggestions and advice of how they could further support their child’s learning and development at home. A useful document to refer parents/carers to is What to expect, when? which can be found here: http://www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2015/03/4Children_ParentsGuide_2015_WEB.pdf

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Early Help

The term Early Help is used to describe the process of taking action early and as soon as possible to tackle problems emerging for children, young people and their families or with a population most at risk of developing problems. Effective help may occur at any point in a child or young person's life. This definition includes both help early in life (with young children including pre-natal interventions) and help early in the development of a problem (with children or young people of any age). It includes universal help that is offered to an entire population to prevent problems developing, and targeted help that is offered to particular children, young people and families with existing risk factors, vulnerabilities or acknowledged additional needs in order to protect them from developing problems or to reduce the severity of problems that have started to emerge. Please use the Request for Services e-form available by following the link on the webpage http://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/earlyhelp This means that the form can be completed on the County Council website and it is passed securely to the First Response team. For support and advice on Early Help approaches please contact First Response – Children’s Duty on 0116 3050005 and ask for the P3 Desk. Early Help takes place within Priority 3 of the Children’s social care priority levels. First Response will help to ensure that there is 'no wrong front door' - that any request for help where needs are adequately identified will be responded to appropriately. The Pathway to Services document sets out the thresholds and criteria for services in Leicestershire:

Last Reviewed: May 2017

AnyComms+ Secure File Transfer System

AnyComms+ is a secure file transfer system which enables Childcare Providers to submit Headcount and Mid-term Adjustment Forms to claim for their FEEE funding as well as accessing their Notes of Visits and Monitoring Reports.

In addition however, Anycomms+ allows for 2-way communication, allowing Providers to send information to the Local Authority safely and securely. This may include evidence to support a funding claim, a letter of enquiry or feedback for the Service. It will also allow Providers to send files to each other, to schools, and to other AnyComms+ users (e.g. Health, SENA, etc.).

Accessing AnyComms+

Log into https://filetransfer.leics.gov.uk/Login.aspx and follow the User Guide which gives full details on how to use the system.

All Providers will be sent their username/password/memorable word in separate emails once registered.

In order to receive a password and memorable word reset please email AMAdminSystemsSupport@leics.gov.uk or phone 0116 305 7423.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE)

Funding is available from the Department of Education (DfE) to enable every eligible 3 & 4 year old, and every 2 year old whose parent’s meet a certain criteria, to receive a free part time place of up to 15 hours per week. This can be accessed over a minimum of 38 weeks per year until they reach statutory school age (i.e. the term after a child’s 5th birthday), which equates to a maximum of 570 hours per year. From September 2017, the government is making funds available for an extended entitlement of 30 hours aimed at working parents, this will be available based on eligibility and will equate to a maximum of 1140 hours per year. Recent changes implemented by the DfE, allow all Early Years Providers registered with Ofsted to access the FEEE funding. At the first inspection, providers are expected to gain at least a ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement in order to keep the FEEE funding; those who do not achieve this risk having the funding withdrawn. Registered Early Years Providers may also support eligible 2 year olds, however, they must ensure they receive at least a ‘Good’ Ofsted judgement in order to continue this support for families. Funding for the 3 & 4 year old funding is paid through an Early Years Single Funding Formula (EYSFF) and is based on the following elements: Base rate (for all providers): £3.97 Deprivation supplement: Maximum of £0.08 based on the child’s address Eligible 2 year olds are funded separately at a rate of £4.93. Please be aware that during the first term of claiming the FEEE you will only receive one payment known as the final payment. This is made at the end of the term once we have collected data about the eligible children attending your setting. It is therefore important that you have sufficient funds to support the on-going costs of providing childcare during this first term (i.e. staffing / resources / rent / utilities etc). Once you have completed your first term and data collection exercise we are then able to generate an initial payment to support the on-going sustainability of providers. For further information, please visit www.leics.gov.uk/feee , where you will find guidance documents, good practice tools, an application form as well as further information regarding the 2 year old funding and the extended entitlement to 30 hours for those eligible parents/carers. For any FEEE queries, please contact the FEEE helpline on 0116 305 5788 or email us at: FEEE@leics.gov.uk

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Pricing your Childminding business As a childminder it is up to you on how you price your business. Below is an example of the costs you need to consider when setting a price. This example takes into account working parent’s use of their 1140 hours per annum free childcare for 3 and 4 year olds they are entitled to. Example of Costing for Childminder with 3 children Expenditure Total Cost Cost per child Gas £600 £200 Electric £300 £100 Food & Drink (@£2 per day each) £1,500 £500 Child Equipment (@£1 per day each) £750 £250 Toys / Materials £200 £65 Insurance £300 £100 Training £150 £50 Marketing / Website £200 £65 Professional bodies membership £100 £35 Stationary £100 £35 Non child time (3 hours per week per child @£4 ph) £1,800 £600 Trips / events £200 £65 Total £6,200 £2,065 Per week cost £124 £41 Hourly Cost £3 £1 Example of Pricing for Childminder

Decide on how much you want to earn per full time child per annum (50 weeks x 40 hours = 2,000 hours). Say £6,000pa = £120 per week.

Wages per week = £120 Other costs = £ 41 Total weekly cost = £161 multiplied by 50 weeks Total Annual cost = £8,050

Income 1140 hrs x £3.97 = £4,526 of minimum FEEE funding 860 hrs x £4.10 = £3,524 Total Income £8,050

PRICE = £4.10 per hour of paid for childcare. The parent pays £71 per week for 40 hours of childcare.

The Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) in Leicestershire

What is the Early Years Pupil Premium? The EYPP is additional funding to support disadvantaged 3 and 4 year olds receiving the Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE). The EYPP will be paid to local authorities through the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG). Local Authorities will be required to pass it onto early years providers for each eligible child at the hourly rate of 53p per hour (around £300 for a full time place of 15 hours).

All registered early years providers that take children for the FEEE – including private, voluntary and independent providers; and childminders – will be able to claim the EYPP for eligible 3 and 4 year olds.

Children will be eligible if they are 3 or 4 years old and receiving Government funded FEEE in any OFSTED registered provider and their parents are in receipt of one or more of the benefits.

For more information https://resources.leicestershire.gov.uk/education-and-children/early-learning-and-childcare/childcare-practice/leadership-and-management/early-years-pupil-premium-eypp/eypp-guidance-and-resources

Last Reviewed: May 2017

SEND LOCAL OFFER

The Information Commissioners Office [ICO]

Who are they? They are an independent public body set up to uphold information rights in the public interest promoting openness by public bodies and data protection for individuals. What has this to do with Childcare providers? ‘The Data Protection Act 1998 requires every data controller who is processing personal information in an automated form to notify, unless they are exempt. Failure to notify is a criminal offence. Register entries have to be renewed annually. If you are required to notify but don’t renew your registration, you are committing a criminal offence.’ [ICO website] You are classed as a ‘data controller’ if you are processing personal information electonically, for the provison of childcare. Personal inforrmation can be information on a child’s health, behaviour or development, and includes photos. If you only keep basic personal information for the purpose of accounts [billing parents] this is exempt. What do I need to do? Go on to the ICO website – www.ico.org.uk. Under the heading ‘information for organisations’ is a link ‘do I need to notify and how do I maintain my register entry’ this will take you to a self assessment form you complete. This will tell you if you need to register or not. There is also a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’, one specifically aimed at childminders. How much will it cost? Approx. £35 per year How do I contact them? Through their website www.ico.org.uk A helpline number is also available through ‘contact us’ on the website.

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Safer Food, Better Business for Childminders This is a pack for registered childminders or childcarers on domestic premises, where meals and dinners are provided for children. It has been developed by the Food Standards Agency working with PACEY, Local Authorities and childminders. Ofsted is aware of this pack. To obtain a free copy of ‘Safer food, better business for childminders’ and guide to food regulations go to: www.food.gov.uk/business-industry/caterers/startingup/childminders

Last Reviewed: May 2017

Last Reviewed: April 2016

Toy Libraries There are a number of toy libraries in Leicestershire full of toys and resources for childminders to borrow in order to provide a variety of activities for the children they look after without having to buy new equipment. They are located across the whole of the county in each of the seven districts so no matter where you child mind there is always a toy library close by for you to use. All the toy libraries are listed below and grouped by district so you can find the best one to suit you: Charnwood Shepshed Toy Library Contact person: Subject to change – Please contact the toy library directly Address: Hind Leys Community Centre Forest St, Shepshed, LE12 9DB Telephone no: 01509 601146 Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday & Friday from 9.30am – 12.00 noon

Last Thursday of every month 6.30 – 7.30pm selected dates. Harborough Harborough special educational need Toy Library - Mobile toy library Contact person: Lizzie Keenan Telephone no: 01455 209447 Web address: www.sleicsmobiletoylibrary.org.uk Hinckley and Bosworth Hinckley & District Toy Library Address: Westfield Children’s Centre, Rosemary way, Hinckley, LE10 0LN Telephone no: 01455 637516 Opening hours: Thursday 9.30am-12.00pm (Term time only) Web address: www.hinckleytoylibrary.co.uk

Childminder Support /Contact Groups 2017

Group name Other details

Oadby & Wigston

O&W Childminding Support Group – Meet 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. every 3rd Friday, term time only at Fairfield School Community Room, Fairfield Estate, South Wigston. Contact: Angela Headley – 0116 2787144, Teresa Stirling – 0116 2249910 or Sally Morris – 0116 2570763 Parent & Toddler CM Group, Fairfield School – Meet 1-3 p.m. every Wed term-time only. Contacts: Angela Headley – 0116 2787144 Jayne Watson – 0116 2916122 (School number to be used for any enquiries to contact Angela or Jayne)

Harborough

Cheeky Chimps – Meet every Tuesday, 9.30am-11.30 am, at Cotesbach Village Hall, Cotesbach, Lutterworth. Contact: Mel 07935311603 Broughton Astley Childminder Professional Development Support Group - Meet fortnightly on Fridays, 10.00am-11.30am, at Broughton Astley Children's Centre, term-time only. Contact: Jill Allen 07940 083596 Chimes Childminding Group – Meet every Tuesday, 9.30am-11.30am, term-time only at The Evangelical Church, Bath Street, Market Harborough. Contact: www.chimeschildmindinggroup.co.uk

Melton

Childminding Support Group – operate a facilitated Stay & Play every Tuesday 10-11.30 a.m. at The Edge, Dalby Road Children’s Centre Contact: Contact Debs Meakin 0787 056 31 60 Bottesford and the Vale Childminder Support Group Flexible times and venues - contact Eileen Wilson 07979748891 Menphys SOS CM Network Contact: Jenny Chapman Tel: 01664 483315

Blaby

Blaby Childminder Support Group meets 9.30am – 11.30am on the last Tuesday of the month (Term Time only) at Blaby Baptist Church. £5 to cover costs but could be reduced depending on numbers. Contact Nichola Elliott on Tel: 0116 2864944 or email nicholaelliott@yahoo.co.uk

Revised May 2017

Charnwood

Syston Childminding Support Group Meet 1st and 3rd Thursday – term time only Contact: Chris Holland – 0116 2609032 at St. Peters/St. Paul’s Church Hall, Lower Church St. Syston childcare providers group. Meets first Tuesday of the month 9.30 – 11.30 at Syston Methodist church, High St. Contact Adell Mason – delrush08@talktalk.net Thorpe Acre CM Support Group Meet weekly Thursday 9.30am-11.30am Contact: Julie Watret - 01509 843512 Thorpe Acre Church Hall Shelthorpe C. Centre CM Support Group Meet weekly Monday am. Contact: Stacey Grain - 01509 213545 Shepshed C/M Network, The Oaktree Children’s Centre, Shepshed – Tues a.m. weekly 9.15-11.15 term time. Contact: Shepshed C.C. - 0116 3055241 Thurmaston C/M Group - Meeting at the Thurmaston Children's Centre on a Tuesday morning 9.30-10.45 a.m. Contact: Eileen Thurman, 07877 799669 email: eileenthurman@hotmail.co.uk

Hinckley & Bosworth Note change of day and leader for Burbage group

Menphys SOS CM Network Tel: 01455 894880 Burbage CM Support Group Conservative Club, Hinckley Road, Burbage Meet Monday a.m. 9.30-11.30 Contact Alison Lancaster

NW Leics

Ashby CM Support Group 1st Wednesday – monthly Contact: Deborah Hanson – 01530 563713. Castle Donnington CM Support Network Meets second Tuesday of the month Contact: Karen West – 01332 850753 Moira Children’s Centre CM Support Group Meet Friday mornings. Contact: Marie Lee 01530 414789. Coalville Children’s Centre CM Support Group Meet 10-11.30 a.m. 2nd Thurs in every month. Contacts: Michelle McDonald – 01530 832035 or Jayne Gidman – 01530 455168

Revised May 2017