When I started minding 4yrs ago I used a stairgate on the bottom of the stairs. But as time went on, husband tripping over it everytime he comes downstairs, older kids swinging on it when putting shoes on, 1 particular 5yr old climbing over it when Mum arrives to show off, I removed it as it had become more of pain than a use.

The area where the children play is at the back of the house and we only go into the hallway when we put on shoes or go out the front door. I feel I dont need one.
BUT....I am due an inspection very soon and have worked sooooooo hard on achieving what Im hoping is going to be Outstanding (we can all have dreams...cant we :D ) I would hate it if this was my downfall.

Can I put in my RA my reasons for not putting a stairgate and will Ofsted be OK with me not having one?

Becky

I believe as long as you put it in your RA and say what precautions you take to keep them safe without one then itll be fine

So long as it in a risk assessment - but i remember I never used a stair gate but I read a report on the inspector that was due to me and he wrote a lot on other reports about no stair gate. that was before risk assessments.

I too had this problem when I had my last inspection. I only use my stairgate as and when I feel I need too. Like you I use the back of the house for childminding and only use door by the stairs occasionally. I actually use my back door for parents to drop and collect their children. I did put my stairgate in place for my inspection because I did not want it to be an issue but did explain that if I felt it wasn't needed I took it down. My inspector was ok with this.

Denise