The Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) has expressed concern that the number of childminder places in Scotland could be reduced by new childcare regulations proposed by the deputy minister for education, Nicol Stephen.
Current legislation allows registered childminders to care for a maximum of six children under the age of eight years old, including their own. But if the new legislation goes ahead the SCMA has pointed out that it could mean they would be registered to look after six children under the age of 16, including their own.
Mr Stephen confirmed in answer to a parliamentary question last month that measures to extend childcare regulation would be included in upcoming legislation on regulation of care services. He said, 'I have considered the matter carefully and decided that full regulation should be applied to care for all children up to the age of 16 years.
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