How can childminders be regarded as professional childcarers when people in the same sector hold us in such low regard? Many childminders already hold the same qualification as Ms Byrne, and many of us, including myself, are studying at the moment for an SVQ in Early Years Care and Education as well as working full-time. We do not have the luxury of having time during the day to study and complete assignments.
Also, as a mother, I would feel happier taking my children to a childminder, who has undergone thorough checks by both police and the social work department, than employing a nanny who has a qualification but nothing else.
I am not as small-minded as Ms Byrne and do not share her view that I would be offended to be called a nanny. I think all childcarers should stick together to increase the awareness that our job is a serious profession.
Lorna Cameron. Aberdeen
