We can provide information and advice on:

• Childcare and early education
• Out of school clubs and holiday care
• Leisure activities
• Family support services
• Activities from 5 -19 years

Family Information Directory an online local searchable directory for:

• Activities for children and young people
• Ofsted registered childcare
• Support agencies

Most childcare providers caring for children aged under eight must register with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education).   Their registration certificate must be prominently displayed on the premises. You can view an Ofsted report at www.ofsted.gov.uk or ask the childcare provider.

Ofsted registration requirements will specify the number of children that are allowed to be on the premises at any time and the ratio of staff to children.

Home childcarers do not need to be formally registered. Generally though most would register with an agency. If you are employing a home childcarer through a nanny agency, ensure that checks have been carried out.

Nursery and pre-school staff, home childcarers, childminders and any other adults in their home are subject to  Criminal Records Bureau checks.

If employing someone directly you may need to consider organising your own security checks.   Some home childcarers may choose to join the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.  If you decide on a childminder you will need to draw up and contract. Once signed, this is a legally binding document.   If you need information on this please contact the National Childminding Association (NCMA) on 0845 880 004 for advice.

Since April 2008, the Government has placed a statutory duty on all local authorities to ensure that there is sufficient childcare in their area. This means that all parents and carers should have access to childcare in order to remain in, or return to, work or education. As part of this duty, all local authorities are asked to carry out a Childcare Sufficiency Assessment.

We have completed a full CSA assessment which details the supply of childcare across Central Bedfordshire and compares this to the demand for childcare from parents and carers.

Consultation has taken place to establish demand for childcare with:

• parents and carers
• childcare providers
• employers
• nannies
• children
• other partner organisations

This process is to identify any gaps in childcare provision, makes recommendations for closing these gaps and will provide the basis for an ongoing Action Plan. The final CSA Report is available below. 

Childcare Sufficiency Assessment (PDF 7.9MB)

If you require any further information or advice about childcare issues please contact the CAF Support and Information Service.