Slow going may close down nurseries

Further to the news story 'Ofsted checks delay staff recruitment' (13 November), I think Ofsted is making it impossible for day nurseries to offer continuous care with a high staff:child ratio. If this continues, we will see more nurseries closing than opening in England, as providers will not be able to have a sufficient number of staff to offer childcare places.

I employed a member of staff in January whose clearance was through within two weeks, but it took until June for Ofsted to issue a letter of clearance. What was I supposed to do - turn parents and children away, or close the nursery due to being understaffed?

I have only been a nursery provider for 12 months and I am still finding my way around all the rules and regulations, and the different interpretations of them all. It appears that some nurseries seem to be able to please themselves with no consequences, while the rest of us try to do everything by the book by providing the best possible childcare we can while trying to earn a living.

I was shocked by the news story and almost pulled my hair out as to which way to turn now. I admit I can't complain too much about Ofsted, as it has been very helpful in many ways during my first year. However, now that I would like to expand to full-day care, which the Government seems to be pushing for and which many parents seem to require, this does not appear to be a priority for Ofsted. I may have to wait up to six months before this can happen because I can't employ staff and then wait that long to get them cleared.

Who wants to sit around not getting paid for a job that may start sometime within the next six months? I know how careful we all have to be when employing new childcare staff, but surely there could be an easier and quicker process in which we can get these clearances through.

I don't have the answer, but I would love to hear from anyone in a similar situation.

Rachel Howson

Rachel's Imps (Important Mini People) Nursery, Blackpool, Lancashire