Newbie :)

[hawalkden]

Hi
I’m heather and want to become a childminder. I’m just wondering what money help you start/set up and what furniture you’d recommend. I know it’s a while off before I even apply for application to become a Childminder just want to know general things.

Also I would like to start trying for a child whenever it happen before during or after I’ve got my Childminding business up… what happens when you get pregnant while you’re childminding? Do you still get 6 months maternity or do you have to go back to work early?

Thank you

Newbie Heather x

[Pauline]

Hi Heather and welcome,

It depends on your local area as to what help you get starting up, some get grants and help with insurance and NCMA membership costs, others get nothing :(

As regards maternity leave, it is entirely up to you, as a childminder you are self-employed so you can take off as much time as you want, but of course you won't get paid and parents might go elsewhere for their childcare if you are not available so many childminders only take a very short time off.