Sarah Richards, manager of Northumberland Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership, warned, 'This particular scam is asking childcare providers, including childminders, to pay 95 for a registration that costs only 35.
'They can make a great deal of money from this activity. We warn all childcare providers to be on the look-out and contact their local development worker if they have any questions.'
EYDCP marketing and communications officer Rosemary Hendry said that subsequent letters, which are 'official-looking and marked urgent notice', have been sent to providers with a demand for 135.
She said, 'The tone of the letters is urgent, telling people they must respond immediately and pay this money. These are scare tactics, and it is not just happening in this area. I've had calls from children's information services in Teesside and Devon saying the same thing.'
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