News

Children's minister calls for restrictions to be lifted preventing childminders from working from rented homes

Claire Coutinho is urging housing associations and landlords to remove clauses in leases that prevent childminders from working from home, in a bid to boost the numbers working in the profession.
Children and Families minister Claire Coutinho
Children and Families minister Claire Coutinho

The children and families minister also revealed the Government is to launch a consultation on reducing childminder Ofsted registration times to around 10 weeks, and making sure they are paid monthly by local authorities.

The measures are designed to reverse the decline in the number of childminders in England.

Childminders in leasehold and rented properties

Coutinho has written to housing associations, developers and landlords to urge them to allow childminders to work in their rented or leasehold properties.

According to the minister, childminders who rent or own leasehold properties ‘too often face restrictive clauses in contracts which stop them from working in their homes – barriers that are unfair’.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here