The number of registered childminders in Edinburgh has fallen by over 10per cent in the past four years. Care Commission statistics show thatthe number of registered childminders in Edinburgh fell from 430 inMarch 2004 to 374 in July this year.
The Childminders Challenge campaign was adopted by the city's Chamber ofCommerce and Working for Families, a Scottish Executive- fundedinitiative, after the demise of the Edinburgh Childcare Partnership inMay.
The partnership originally set up the campaign, which has so farsucceeded in recruiting around 200 childminders.
Maureen Munroe, business advisor at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce,said, 'We're publicising childminding as a career, particularly topeople in regenerating areas. Working for Families provides an advisoryand support service and we provide the business support - for example,help in applying for loans and grants.
'Childminders are important because they can offer more flexible hourswhich are invaluable for people working shifts or at weekends.'
The Chamber of Commerce also supplies a 500 start-up grant thatis given to around 50 childminders a year.
For details contact Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce on 0131 221 2999.
