I have been a registered childminder for 11 years and now work with another registered childminder at my home.
Childminders have the same policies and procedures as nurseries and after-school clubs. These must always be kept up to date and on hand, as must child records. Such paperwork should not be done just because of an inspection, whether announced or unannounced.
As members of a childminding network we are checked every six to eight weeks and usually receive at least two unannounced visits per year, as well as our Care Standards Inspection, unannounced and annual inspection visits.
We are not complaining.
We take the children on trips and organise our day to incorporate daily routines and varied activities. If we do not have the required staff we do not open.
Safety measures should be in place 24/7 to ensure the health and safety of the children at all times, not just when an inspector is due.
Bev Pope and Pam Roberts, registered childminders, Pontnewydd, Cwmbran
