National Action Plan for Childminding 2021-2028

Childminding is changing

The National Action Plan for Childminding sets out a phased approach towards regulation, supports, and subsidies, for all paid, non-relative childminders. The Action Plan will involve change with significant benefits for childminders, children and the families using their services.

Who is the plan for? 

In the Action Plan, a childminder is defined as a self-employed person who single-handedly cares for an individual or small group of children in the childminder’s own home. Childminders are self-employed, agree their own fees, terms, and conditions with parents, and they are responsible for their own tax arrangements.

What is the purpose of the plan? 

The aim of the Action Plan is to:

• provide greater recognition for childminding at home, and
• support childminders in their work of providing high quality early learning and care and school age childcare, thus helping families, and supporting child development and learning outcomes.

How will the plan be implemented? 

The plan was launched in April 2021, and it is currently in the first phase of implementation. 

Consultation with childminders is ongoing to develop:

• New regulations, appropriate for childminding in the family home, and
• New training and specific supports tailored to childminding.