The Bucks Buddy Scheme will match experienced registered childminders in the area with people new to the job. The scheme, which is currently in the planning stage, is being developed jointly by Buckinghamshire Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership and the Buckinghamshire Childminders Association (BCA). It is due to be launched in January and will be supported by the National Childminding Association.
Registered childminders with at least two years experience will be eligible to become Buddies and receive appropriate training and expenses.
EYDCP public relations officer Terri Wilson said, 'The first year as a childminder can be daunting. A Buddy will be a friendly face to point them in the right direction or provide a listening ear.'
Childminder Annie Smith, BCA joint secretary, said, 'After the initial training many childminders feel like they are on their own if they do not know local childminders. It will be nice to know that there is someone to visit or phone and maybe attend their first childminders' meeting with.
'A childminder may have difficulties with parents or contracts. If there is a crisis it is so important to have someone to talk to. There doesn't have to be a problem - the buddy could give guidance on the best way to entertain a four-year-old on a wet afternoon and simply be there for reassurance.'
For information on becoming a registered childminder in Buckinghamshire, call freephone 0800 328 3317.
