I also fear for the safety of minded children. Nursery schools have security equipment and staff as back-up, but as I am alone with the children, we would be extremely vulnerable to undesirables.
The parents whose children I care for are committed to home-based care, but say that if Ofsted publishes my details on the internet, they will feel forced to leave their jobs and care for their children themselves. They are concerned that the Government body supposed to ensure childminders give safe, quality care is endangering childminders, their families, their homes and, most of all, the children. The parents have given me written notice that if my details are put on the internet, they will remove their children from my care to ensure their safety. They will also take legal advice regarding compensation from Ofsted for the trauma to their children, as well as their loss of earnings.
When I contacted my insurance company, I was told that if I advertise my property and possessions on the internet, along with facts such as when I am out, it would not insure me. If this proposal goes ahead, I will have no alternative but to cease childminding.
If Ofsted is so committed to giving parents the information they need to make an informed judgement, then perhaps the inspectors' personal details should be included too, to enable parents to judge whether the inspector is experienced or newly-qualified. Maybe their home address should be included too as they, like us, work from home.
Or would that not be acceptable on the grounds of safety and data protection?
