I have just got a letter from Ofsed proposing to put my full address and telephone number on the web site along side my report. They say this will aid the parents search and they then won't have to go to FIS.

Our FIS don't put our full addresses on their information, they put the area and our phone number and email if we give consent for this which most people do seem to now. But not full postal address.

Am I being over protective? I have never put my full address on any advertising because I work alone in my home with other peoples children.

On a very basic Child protection point of view to put my full name and address on Ofsteds web site could put me and the children in danger. Also I don't want people trolling up and knocking on my door asking about childcare especially during the working day when I don't know them and am not expecting them.

I also find that where I live can put people off, we are at the top of a hill on an old council estate, we bought an ex council house 8 years ago. It makes all the difference if you can speak to a parent first. I also get the parents full address and phone details prior to a visit and it is better if you have been able to introduce yourselves over the phone at least. I'm sure most will phone before coming but you are bound to get some who turn up on the doorstep.

It is different for Day Nurseries and pre schools. They are not working in their own homes rather a building that is closed at night and no one lives there. They have other members of staff on hand which most of us don't.

For those of you who do give your consent for your full address to be published how will you then have control over it and how and where it is used by Ofsted or similar in the future?

Needless to say I will not be giving permission for this to be published.


I have just spoken to Ofsted and no one will speak on the phone about it we have to email or write with any concerns.


Please tell me I'm not the only one concerned about this move?

No way! I won't allow them to do that either. I'm in a remote area and most of my neighbours are out all day. If any weirdos turned up then I'd have no-one around me :panic:.
It's my home address. Why should parents be bothered in knowing where you live. It's what you can offer which is important.

No way! I won't allow them to do that either. I'm in a remote area and most of my neighbours are out all day. If any weirdos turned up then I'd have no-one around me :panic:.
It's my home address. Why should parents be bothered in knowing where you live. It's what you can offer which is important.

Thank goodness I'm not the only one :thumbsup:

What we must do is make sure we all write or email our shock.

Yep, just opened my letter, had to look at it a few times, to make sure it wasnt a wind up:eek:. Wonder how many will give consent:rolleyes:

I wont !!!

Absolutely ridiculous! Who dreamed up this barmy idea then?

Do they have any consideration whatsoever for our safety and the safety of children or is that just lip service during inspections? :(

Are you saying we can opt out? I really hope so.

I was recently a victim of a scam and had to give a statement to the police in which I stated my occupation.

I had said I'd give evidence in court if needed but asked if they could keep my occupation out, but the policeman couldn't guarentee it.

I was worried that if the crook and her family/friends found out what I did they could get my number from the FIS and harrass me by phone, I also rang the FIS to check if my address got sent out on the paper lists to enquirers.

I'd hate not to be able to do my civic duty because I have my family and other people's children's safety to put first.

i've just had my letter with my fee renewal form in it, but no mention of putting addresses on website.

I found out about this at our group this morning and must say I was taken aback. As part of my role as a NCMA National Policy Forum member I contacted NCMA to ascertain more information.
I was was advised that they were aware of the proposal but not that the letters had been already sent out. There is something on the NCMA website with a brief reasoning behind it. I gave over my opinion & concerns to the senior NCMA staff member and was advised that NCMA had no control over the situation.
This is a totally optional thing for each individual CM to decide what they want to do.

Are you saying we can opt out? I really hope so.

I was recently a victim of a scam and had to give a statement to the police in which I stated my occupation.

I had said I'd give evidence in court if needed but asked if they could keep my occupation out, but the policeman couldn't guarentee it.

I was worried that if the crook and her family/friends found out what I did they could get my number from the FIS and harrass me by phone, I also rang the FIS to check if my address got sent out on the paper lists to enquirers.

I'd hate not to be able to do my civic duty because I have my family and other people's children's safety to put first.

Don't worry tealady you actually have to Opt in to it because of data protection they can't publish our details without our consent. I still think we should all take the time to write an point out the stupidity of the proposal.

I found out about this at our group this morning and must say I was taken aback. As part of my role as a NCMA National Policy Forum member I contacted NCMA to ascertain more information.
I was was advised that they were aware of the proposal but not that the letters had been already sent out. There is something on the NCMA website with a brief reasoning behind it. I gave over my opinion & concerns to the senior NCMA staff member and was advised that NCMA had no control over the situation.
This is a totally optional thing for each individual CM to decide what they want to do.


And I thought they were there to stand up for us and or unique roll in childcare. :rolleyes:

Especially on a matter such as this which to me is a clear Child Protection issue. So many will read this as a must do as well I bet and give permission thinking they have to or even worse thinking they will loose business if they don't do it. Surely this is what NCMA should be lobbying hard about on our behalf?

Absolutely ridiculous! Who dreamed up this barmy idea then?

Do they have any consideration whatsoever for our safety and the safety of children or is that just lip service during inspections? :(


I think it shows how they view us in many ways the same as Day Nurseries and don't value our unique personal service.

Yep, just opened my letter, had to look at it a few times, to make sure it wasnt a wind up:eek:. Wonder how many will give consent:rolleyes:

Me, I'm in yellow pages.
I'm sorry i Don't see the problem, maybe if you're rural but do you think your information isn't out there anyway. I found a member's address on google so I could send her some flowers. It really isn't hard to get info, this won't make it any easier
And if anyone wants to use you for their children they have no way of contacting you unless your details are on the site

And I thought they were there to stand up for us and or unique roll in childcare. :rolleyes:

Especially on a matter such as this which to me is a clear Child Protection issue. So many will read this as a must do as well I bet and give permission thinking they have to or even worse thinking they will loose business if they don't do it. Surely this is what NCMA should be lobbying hard about on our behalf?

I don't want to get into a big debate about this, but will say that it was NCMA who told Ofsted that this must be an optional process not statutory. If you don't want to be apart of it you don't have too. It will not be held against you in any way.

I too am in the yellow pages so the information is out there but I would have preferred the option of giving permission for my name and telephone number to be shown though

Cx

Me, I'm in yellow pages.
I'm sorry i Don't see the problem, maybe if you're rural but do you think your information isn't out there anyway. I found a member's address on google so I could send her some flowers. It really isn't hard to get info, this won't make it any easier
And if anyone wants to use you for their children they have no way of contacting you unless your details are on the site

Fair point AJS.

Just out of interest, do you get many enquiries through using yellow pages? Certainly food for thought.

Now you see I would never advertise in Yellow pages for the same reason and we have an unlisted telephone number.

Maybe I am just odd then.

My address is not published in the public domain in connection with my being a childminder.

I have also minded split families in the past where one parent did not know where their children were being looked after. I also would not relish the fact that a complete stranger could knock on my door, I know most would ring but there will be those that won't.

I don't want to get into a big debate about this, but will say that it was NCMA who told Ofsted that this must be an optional process not statutory. If you don't want to be apart of it you don't havetoo. It will not be held against you in any way.

Yes I do realize that.

What saddens me is that no one at Ofsted can notsee the potential risks associated with having this info published and have even suggested that it is a good idea.

It does demonstrate to me how little real understanding many of them have of what childminding is about and how it works.

I too am in the yellow pages so the information is out there but I would have preferred the option of giving permission for my name and telephone number to be shown though

Cx

You do have the option with Ofsted Christine - if you want your name and address adding you sign and return the form, if you don't then you need do nothing.

Miffy xx

You do have the option with Ofsted Christine - if you want your name and address adding you sign and return the form, if you don't then you need do nothing.

Miffy xx

Miffy I think she means in yellow pages because they put your full address and a map of where you are and you can't opt out of them doing that if you advertise with them I think.

Miffy I think she means in yellow pages because they put your full address and a map of where you are and you can't opt out of them doing that if you advertise with them I think.

I'm in yellow pages not yell.com there's no map of where I am.

I am sorry but I think your naive in believing you can't be traced, I know your full name and your town but sadly don't have the time to do the search.

In answer to the yellow pages question yes. Have had lots of business in the past but not recently. Will check I am still in there

RS In fact you and your job are number one on the search with your full name and town in google sorry to prove you wrong, I wanted for me not to find you but you were the top 4 on the search list

I am in the yellow pages but I gave the address on my local Asda 2 min walk.
I put in my advert that the address is for my local Asda due to child protection issues and If they would like to contact me please use the mobile number required.

No I will not be opting into Ofsted adding my address. x

I got my letter today. I have to be honest, I didn't see much of a problem with it. I don't want my name & address on the Ofsed website so I won't sign the form.

I only gave the letter a quick skim through though. Is there more to it than that?

I'm in yellow pages not yell.com there's no map of where I am.

I am sorry but I think your naive in believing you can't be traced, I know your full name and your town but sadly don't have the time to do the search.

In answer to the yellow pages question yes. Have had lots of business in the past but not recently. Will check I am still in there

RS In fact you and your job are number one on the search with your full name and town in google sorry to prove you wrong, I wanted for me not to find you but you were the top 4 on the search list

Yes, you have found my entry on my local FIS listing which does tell you my area but not my full postal address just my email and phone numbers.


It is of course each persons choice whether they give Ofsted permission to publish their info but I just wanted to pass on my feelings so they may see a different point of view. I know I am quite protective. :blush:

I know that if someone is determined to find me they will but why make it easier by advertising along side my Ofsted report and including my full postal address. I know some people don't have a problem but I feel that the less the fact that I am a childcarer working on my own is just out there the better I am protected from someone just randomly knocking on the door.

I got my letter today. I have to be honest, I didn't see much of a problem with it. I don't want my name & address on the Ofsed website so I won't sign the form.

I only gave the letter a quick skim through though. Is there more to it than that?

No there isn't mouse, if you want your address on the ofsted site you sign the form if you don't bin it, simples ;)

Having just read comments on other sites regarding this there are just as many pro this as against, It is personal choice. :D

I got my letter today. I have to be honest, I didn't see much of a problem with it. I don't want my name & address on the Ofsed website so I won't sign the form.

I only gave the letter a quick skim through though. Is there more to it than that?



That's right Mouse but I just wanted to open a debate and put my view as to why I won't be sending the form back in case it made someone look at it in a different way, especially as Ofsted are pushing the 'you may get more business buttons' in the letter.

I don't think I'll agree to it but I'm wondering if from a parents point of view are they likely to go to the ones with the address details first when looking for care before considering others. Do they want phone numbers too?

I have managed 10 years without posting my address ................. no way will i be ticking the yes box. No need !! :panic::censored:

i used to be in the yellow pages only did this for a year didn't bother after as nothing came of it. i didn't have my address just area so felt a bit safer. As for ofsted they won't be getting my consent. as far as i'm concerned our unique number is more than enough. surely just putting a distance (miles) from your property would be more than enough like the childcare site. i thought this letter was a joke and not real

I don't think I'll agree to it but I'm wondering if from a parents point of view are they likely to go to the ones with the address details first when looking for care before considering others. Do they want phone numbers too?


I am going to write to them and was going to ask about this and email addresses. FIS give that info and I wouldn't mind that but not my address.

Just wavering off the subject a little - I was surprised to see on our family information service that they put a link to ofsted with my report on. My name and address and telephone number is mentioned on the website, but my registration number and report is in the link. Didn't know that they could do this, but there again the reports are public. What do you think about this?

Just wavering off the subject a little - I was surprised to see on our family information service that they put a link to ofsted with my report on. My name and address and telephone number is mentioned on the website, but my registration number and report is in the link. Didn't know that they could do this, but there again the reports are public. What do you think about this?

I don't see a problem with this parents could ring the info service and get our reg number to look up our reports anyway. I had a couple visit last Sunday who had looked at my report. If your name and address are on the information service web site then you must have given your permission for it to be included. If you did not then they should not have put the address there and you can ask them to remove it.

I have just received the letter too. Will fill it in and send it off in a bit. I don't have any issue with it.

My house is here whether or not ofsted put it on their website. I honestly don't see how publishing my address causes any child protection issues.

Most of the houses on this estate are filled with families with children, most of them don't keep their doors locked all day, most of them don't carefully check the id's of each and every visiting tradesman and cold caller, most of them do not ensure their property is completely and totally secure, most of them don't practise evacuation procedures, most of them don't have all the relevant emergency contact numbers on their phone etc.

I think most of them will be softer targets than me for any potential deviant!

...however, childcare resources targeted junk mail may increase I would imagine!

I had an inspector around the other day, she said address as in full one shouldn't be broadcasted as you don't know who is looking at the details.. Even tho you are their supervising children you don't want someone dodgy watching your moves.. Their are some horrible people about.

I had an inspector around the other day, she said address as in full one shouldn't be broadcasted as you don't know who is looking at the details.. Even tho you are their supervising children you don't want someone dodgy watching your moves.. Their are some horrible people about.

So if this is the advise of an inspector why are Ofsted doing it! It makes me laugh.

...however, childcare resources targeted junk mail may increase I would imagine!


That could indeed happen and there is nothing stopping Ofsted making money by selling our contact details.

That could indeed happen and there is nothing stopping Ofsted making money by selling our contact details.

I think the Data Protection Act would stop that. :)

I don't see a problem with this parents could ring the info service and get our reg number to look up our reports anyway. I had a couple visit last Sunday who had looked at my report. If your name and address are on the information service web site then you must have given your permission for it to be included. If you did not then they should not have put the address there and you can ask them to remove it.



I meant to say my name and address and telephone number are not on the website - sorry! I definitely didn't want them on there. I am not too bothered about the link to my report, I just didn't expect it. I had a family visit me this week who had already read my report too by googling my name, then it linked to information service and then they followed the link.

With the issue of tracing individuals childminders its already possible for those that have registered with ICO to be tracked.
Just by typing in the childminders name throws up their ICO entry.
:mad:

My concern with this is that it will make it so easy for parents to find our registration number and full address information which is not so easy at the moment unless there are very few childminders in the area you live.

I know that my number has been used for fraudulant purposes by a parent coming to see me, being all positive and wanting to go ahead. They took the contract away (with my number on it) and never heard from them again. In the meantime I will guarantee that WFTC is being claimed against it!

I will not be giving permission to have my full details shown all at once. I am not worried about people calling unexpectedly but I want to make it more difficult for the fraudsters!

With the issue of tracing individuals childminders its already possible for those that have registered with ICO to be tracked.
Just by typing in the childminders name throws up their ICO entry.
:mad:

I have just tried that and can't get any answers let alone addresses. If you re able to then maybe you should complain to them about disclosing personal details under the data protection act?

I was going to say the same as daftbat. Publishing our names, full addressess and registration numbers all in the same place is just asking for people to fraudulently use it to claim WTC, and we wouldn't even know!

xxx

So if this is the advise of an inspector why are Ofsted doing it! It makes me laugh.

Ofsted aren't part of the inspectors these are a different company as they wanted to save money- she explained this is why we have to wait to be inspected for abit of time.. If they worked as a team instead of thinking of money all the time maybe they would give the same information. Silly isn't it.

I have just tried that and can't get any answers let alone addresses. If you re able to then maybe you should complain to them about disclosing personal details under the data protection act?

We tried this to and could not get an address :D

maybe they are going to get rid of FIS?

I only stumbled across this as I do not like any of my details appearing, where I haven't put them, and I was curious about what data / information is "out there" and how easy it was to find things out by cross referencing various websites/information noticeboards.

I think you have to enter the name exactly as it appears on the register entry, and it will only be those that have registered and paid the fee.

My local FIS rang up in November asking whether they could publish my address. I hesitated at first and couldn't make a decision straight away. After talking to a few other local childminders, I realised that most had done this, and if I wanted to get work through the FIS (which has been about half of my mindees), I would have to agree. However, my address and Ofsted number is on Ofsted report which is easily available online, and I'm registered with the ICO, so my details are out there.

Amy

I am registered with the ICO but told them I did not want my full address published, they quite happily did this just putting the road I lived in

My local FIS rang up in November asking whether they could publish my address. I hesitated at first and couldn't make a decision straight away. After talking to a few other local childminders, I realised that most had done this, and if I wanted to get work through the FIS (which has been about half of my mindees), I would have to agree. However, my address and Ofsted number is on Ofsted report which is easily available online, and I'm registered with the ICO, so my details are out there.

Amy

Your address should not be online on your report? It is on our Certificates but not on our reports.

I do not have my address on FIS nor do any of the childminders in my area, we have phone numbers and most have an email address. It is entirely you choice to have it published.

ICO will leave your address off the details as well is you ask them to.

Ofsted aren't part of the inspectors these are a different company as they wanted to save money- she explained this is why we have to wait to be inspected for abit of time.. If they worked as a team instead of thinking of money all the time maybe they would give the same information. Silly isn't it.

Yes that is true but it is Ofsted who employ the Companies and dictate the terms they work under so Prospects and Tribal work according to strict guidelines laid down by Ofsted.

I found this out during my Inspection process in Sept when i asked the Inspector to approve a simple variation and she refused point blank saying Ofsted should do it as she was only part time and couldn't. I rang Ofsted and the guy went mad, rang the inspecting company and told them to do it that day or else! It was done within 2 hours!!!

I ripped mine up but I have my full address with FIS. My details are readily available from the electrol role if someone really wants it.

I think I will give my consent. I haven’t quite made up my mind but there are many reasons for giving parents easier access to childcare information, one of the main ones is it makes life easier for them to find childminders. In my experience far too few parents know anything about the FIS, they tend to ask friends, the health visitor (who may or may not know what childminding is these days (ie equal to nurseries) or they stumble about getting phone numbers off ‘someone who knows someone who they think looks after children’. Anything that makes it as easy to find out about Registered Childminders as it is finding out about the local nursery/pre-school is got to be good and a step in the right direction.
Anyone worried about their vulnerability as a sole worker can stay anonymous by just not replying to the Ofsted letter.
However, before anyone makes that decision they should know that it is already fairly easy to find out allsorts of details about anyone, and being childminders we are not really at any more of a risk than the ‘lady down the road with a young family’. In fact we are probably (hopefully) more savvy about who we allow into our lives, our security arrangements (secure premises, gardens, practice, CRB checks on regular visitors etc) and ‘lady down the road with a young family’ will be a much better bet for any paedophile. One positive outcome of childminders being more easily recognised is ‘visible childminding’. Many childminders these days have websites or wear a uniform or have adverts on their cars, and I don’t think these things have lead to a wave of abductions of childminding children……they have maybe helped raise the standard of childminding in general.
We are protected by data protection but that doesn’t stop information appearing online that has been gleaned from various sources and copied by countless search sites. At least the information that Ofsted have will (hopefully) be accurate.
Unscrupulous parents using my number doesn’t bother me, I do hate the thought of someone fraudulently obtaining money and diddling the system however I’m not responsible for the actions of cheats. They can already get my number easily enough by asking me for it- I am required to give out when I’m asked.
As I say if you don’t want Ofsted to print your details, for whatever reason, then do nothing and they will only show your number against your registration & report.

Yes that is true but it is Ofsted who employ the Companies and dictate the terms they work under so Prospects and Tribal work according to strict guidelines laid down by Ofsted.

I found this out during my Inspection process in Sept when i asked the Inspector to approve a simple variation and she refused point blank saying Ofsted should do it as she was only part time and couldn't. I rang Ofsted and the guy went mad, rang the inspecting company and told them to do it that day or else! It was done within 2 hours!!!

Its a shame they dont work together instead of under each other.. Nothings easy anymore

I was going to say the same as daftbat. Publishing our names, full addressess and registration numbers all in the same place is just asking for people to fraudulently use it to claim WTC, and we wouldn't even know!

xxx

we were wondering if this could happen as well as tax credits dont check that often.

However, I have decided to allow Ofsted to publish my details to see if it will make a difference getting enquires. Parents seem to struggle to find information about childminders in this area. This is the only pro I can think of.
I have deiced to try it for 6 months and if it makes no difference then I will be requesting they remove my details. However My husband also works with me so im not on my own in the house so im not sure if I would opt in if it wasnt for this

I am not happy about this request. I have asked ofsted if we can meet half way and just drop the house number but the answer is no. I was at a group this morning and we all agreed that we would like to give out our details but draw the line at house number. I have emailed NCMA. I wonder if enough of us do the same if they will consult with Ofsted as we would like to meet half way. All we ask is that name, telephone and address minus house number should suffice. It is too much to reply all or nothing

I am not happy about this request. I have asked ofsted if we can meet half way and just drop the house number but the answer is no. I was at a group this morning and we all agreed that we would like to give out our details but draw the line at house number. I have emailed NCMA. I wonder if enough of us do the same if they will consult with Ofsted as we would like to meet half way. All we ask is that name, telephone and address minus house number should suffice. It is too much to reply all or nothing

That is the trouble. NCMA have apparently consulted with Ofsted over this and we should be 'grateful' that they have made this request optional!!! NCMA should have been campaigning to stop them even asking us for it.

Unfortunately I am unable to go to my NCMA Regional Forum Meeting on Saturday, 3rd one I have had to miss because I have my Level 3 Diploma Study day.

I think the best way for us to complain is by writing to Ofsted and copying to NCMA. The addresses won't be put online until Sept so there could be a chance if enough of us write they may think twice.

[QUOTE=rickysmiths;1046404]That is the trouble. NCMA have apparently consulted with Ofsted over this and we should be 'grateful' that they have made this request optional!!! NCMA should have been campaigning to stop them even asking us for it.

Unfortunately I am unable to go to my NCMA Regional Forum Meeting on Saturday, 3rd one I have had to miss because I have my Level 3 Diploma Study day.

I think the best way for us to complain is by writing to Ofsted and copying to NCMA. The addresses won't be put online until Sept so there could be a chance if enough of us write they may think twice.[/QUOTE


Why should NCMA be campaigning to stop Ofsted asking us if we would like our details on the Ofsted site with our reports?
I'm an NCMA member and my sentiments echo Winnie's. You don't want your details there and now you have the choice not to have them there. I really don't get why you think we should all be writing and complaining.
Carol x

Hi

I dont mind having my details listed but we would like to remove the house number everything else can be listed. I don't think that is asking too much. I want to meet halfway therefore I feel that Ofsted will get far more childminders sign up if they remove house number.

Hi

I did also contact ICO and they have removed the house number and left everything else. It seems that ICO which is a gov department can easily drop the house number yet OFSTED cannot!!!

I have just had a call from ICO and they have said that they cannot remove the house number but if we pay for a PO box address then we can do that or they suggested give out a network coordinator's details instead at least on the ICO website it does not state that we are childminders and does not indicate that we work from home

[QUOTE=rickysmiths;1046404]That is the trouble. NCMA have apparently consulted with Ofsted over this and we should be 'grateful' that they have made this request optional!!! NCMA should have been campaigning to stop them even asking us for it.

Unfortunately I am unable to go to my NCMA Regional Forum Meeting on Saturday, 3rd one I have had to miss because I have my Level 3 Diploma Study day.

I think the best way for us to complain is by writing to Ofsted and copying to NCMA. The addresses won't be put online until Sept so there could be a chance if enough of us write they may think twice.[/QUOTE


Why should NCMA be campaigning to stop Ofsted asking us if we would like our details on the Ofsted site with our reports?
I'm an NCMA member and my sentiments echo Winnie's. You don't want your details there and now you have the choice not to have them there. I really don't get why you think we should all be writing and complaining.
Carol x

Because I don't think from a pure Child Protection point of view Ofsted should even be suggesting that our name and address be published with our reports. I think it is in appropriate. I know we have a choice and I will not be giving my permission. However I don't think we should have been asked and i think NCMA should be pointing out to them the folly of this plan and I get the impression that they haven't and we should be glad that they got Osted to give us the choice. Ofsted would have to have got our permission to publish our addresses anyway so big deal NCMA! I'm sorry I am a great supporter of NCMA as you know but I feel they have let us down on this one.

I have been to cm drop in this morning and everyone there was saying the same thing without me saying a word. They were already discussing it when I arrived. Most of us agree we would be happy to do what our local FIS do and just have email and phone, but no one wants full address. We have a couple of single mum cms and they were very critical of this plan.

With placing full adress online: will only Encourage phidophile's
:panic: putting all children in danger

I am allowing it based on the fact that I am right on a county border. I get most of my business from the county I DON'T live in, parents have complained because when they ring up the FIS, I am not on the one that I most get the business from.

I have had 2 people turn up at my door anyway literally saying "I heard you are a childminder - have you got spaces" and have just given them some info and asked them to give me a call to make an appointment. Everyone around me locally knows what I do anyway, and I can't see that some loon from miles away will come to stalk me out.... well I hope not!

Glad I'm not the only one who can see the potential risks in giving consent , I have had my letter asking for permission to add it but i won't be. Far too risky in my mind.:panic:

I am glad that so many of you, won't be giving your consent to have your details published. I recieved my letter last week and had to read it a few times, I thought I was being a bit over protective.

I don't see why they can't just publish the area and a mobile number or maybe that's just a crazy :idea:

Needless to say I won't be giving my consent

I feel kind of bad admitting this now but I have filled it in giving my consent!

I think it's a good idea to be able to see the Ofsted report and see exactly who it relates to. As someone looking for good childcare in the past looking at Ofsted reports was pointless because it didn't identify who it related to. Having now worked in EY's for a few years (pre-school first) I know the Ofsted report is not the be all and end all! However, as a parent seeking childcare it's nice to be able to look.

I DO take the point about fraudulant claims for childcare though - I wonder how they will stop that!!

As for peodophiles we live in a world where they can randomly choose any child at any time. I agree on not putting pictures of children on the internet in case a peodophile decides to target that child but targeting a random address on the internet? Maybe the choice should be to either decline in total or have a partial address so giving everyone the option to join in without revealing the full address?

I chose to have my address on so parents and potential parents can see clearly my Ofsted and So that potential parents can put a name and location to me rather than just being a 'number'

I live in a town and there are 12 childminders. We are all on a list that is displayed in the children's centre, doctors surgery, library, schools, pre-schools, community centre, village halls, and it has our full address and phone number on so parents can contact us. This list has been around for YEARS!
I also have a sign outside promoting me as a childminder and on my car.

I have NEVER had anyone just turn up on my doorstep either. As a childminder I have a secure locked garden with a high fence and a locked front door. I would never let a stranger in my house. I also take the point of those of you who live in isolated areas and perhaps have more open playing areas.

I'd be really interested to know (from a policeman or criminologist or whoever) whether Peodophiles target strangers on a planned attack from an internet source and if they do is it the photo of a child that attracts them? or do they target strangers from a purely opportunistic point of view - like a child playing alone in an isolated part of the park? OR do they target families and friends children's because they have slowly and steadily built up a trust over the years so they have opportunity.

I completely understand why some of you choose not to go on - but surely it should be up to others if they do choose to go on? Please don't shoot me!

I think i will say yes as well. :)

and actually about that 'i would never let a stranger in my house' that I just wrote I may have to correct myself there!

isn't this what we do every time a potential parent phones up to visit? we don't know who they are and I have had a mum visit me with no child in tow - because it would be 'easier to talk'

I have never had a single dad ask to come but what if he did? - how is that different from allowing a mum to visit? BUT you are then letting a strange man in your home and as it's been pointed out we all work on our own!

So a man (or woman) phones up, asks about childcare wants to come and visit - you give an address and they come visit. Now not only do they know your address but they have an invitation in to your home!

I feel kind of bad admitting this now but I have filled it in giving my consent!

I think it's a good idea to be able to see the Ofsted report and see exactly who it relates to. As someone looking for good childcare in the past looking at Ofsted reports was pointless because it didn't identify who it related to. Having now worked in EY's for a few years (pre-school first) I know the Ofsted report is not the be all and end all! However, as a parent seeking childcare it's nice to be able to look.

I DO take the point about fraudulant claims for childcare though - I wonder how they will stop that!!

As for peodophiles we live in a world where they can randomly choose any child at any time. I agree on not putting pictures of children on the internet in case a peodophile decides to target that child but targeting a random address on the internet? Maybe the choice should be to either decline in total or have a partial address so giving everyone the option to join in without revealing the full address?

I chose to have my address on so parents and potential parents can see clearly my Ofsted and So that potential parents can put a name and location to me rather than just being a 'number'

I live in a town and there are 12 childminders. We are all on a list that is displayed in the children's centre, doctors surgery, library, schools, pre-schools, community centre, village halls, and it has our full address and phone number on so parents can contact us. This list has been around for YEARS!
I also have a sign outside promoting me as a childminder and on my car.

I have NEVER had anyone just turn up on my doorstep either. As a childminder I have a secure locked garden with a high fence and a locked front door. I would never let a stranger in my house. I also take the point of those of you who live in isolated areas and perhaps have more open playing areas.

I'd be really interested to know (from a policeman or criminologist or whoever) whether Peodophiles target strangers on a planned attack from an internet source and if they do is it the photo of a child that attracts them? or do they target strangers from a purely opportunistic point of view - like a child playing alone in an isolated part of the park? OR do they target families and friends children's because they have slowly and steadily built up a trust over the years so they have opportunity.

I completely understand why some of you choose not to go on - but surely it should be up to others if they do choose to go on? Please don't shoot me!

This is not so. I have had parents visit me who have looked at my Ofsted report Online because they have asked and got my URN from the FIS. In practice I actually find that the parents that come to me are not interested and the first time they see my report is when they get their copy in their parent folder

Lists displayed in this manner are very unusual and do not need to have childminders full addresses on if they are, a telephone number and email address would be sufficient. Have you ever got any business as a result of any of these?

Be careful with a sign on the outside of you house in a residential area because you are not allowed to advertise a business in this way in such an area, if a neighbour complains you could find you are asked to remove it by your local council and face some questioning about your business. This happened to a cm friend of mine. On you car is different.

and actually about that 'i would never let a stranger in my house' that I just wrote I may have to correct myself there!

isn't this what we do every time a potential parent phones up to visit? we don't know who they are and I have had a mum visit me with no child in tow - because it would be 'easier to talk'

I have never had a single dad ask to come but what if he did? - how is that different from allowing a mum to visit? BUT you are then letting a strange man in your home and as it's been pointed out we all work on our own!

So a man (or woman) phones up, asks about childcare wants to come and visit - you give an address and they come visit. Now not only do they know your address but they have an invitation in to your home!


Yes but I have the parents address and phone contacts and I always deliver one of my brochures to them before a visit so I know the address given is correct. I never interview during working hours when I have mindeed children here and I never interview when I am in the house alone.

oh thats a really interesting point about the sign - I had never considered that I would not be able to put it up because I am in a residential area - part of my sign incorporates a poster I was sent by the council asking me to display it in a prominent position! (its about them supporting childcare development through funding)
My house is really tucked out of the way and is difficult to find so having a sign outside it has been really helpful and I have been complimented on it when DO and council workers (EHO) have visited. I had wanted to put one on my back gate as this is by the road and can be seen by passers by. Free advertising so to speak - do you think I would get told to take it down then or only if someone complains??!
I really respect you for going to so much effort to protect your children by visiting prospective parents and never having them in the house with minded children. But in reality I am sure not all other childminders do this (or are able to do this). I have visited 3 childminders when I visited looking for childcare for my sons and it was all during minding hours. all my parents have visited me during minded hours because they want to see what kind of environment their children will be playing in and presumably what kind of interaction I give the children.
You are also really fortunate that you are never in the house alone - my husband works when my parents want to come round so I am inevitably on my own and maybe this is something I should consider but I still don't see a problem with my address being on a website or a poster.

In answer to your question - yes most of the business comes through the list as it has all the childminders on it. When people phone me and I am full I say do you have the list and 9 times out of 10 they say yes and are working their way through it - if they say no i point them in the direction of the family information service. All the other childminders in the town as far as I know have always relied on the list for their business - that is how I found the childminders when I worked and I needed childcare.
I am the only one who uses posters, car signs and a website to promote myself because last year when I started there were 2 others that started just before me, the school went to single intake and the pre-schools were taking from 2 so i found it really difficult to fill my spaces as a newbie!!

Perhaps I am niave and I should be considering this more seriously or perhaps you are over-protective?
I will certainly be taking on board what you have said and just because I like to give my opinion please don't think I am having a go!!

oh thats a really interesting point about the sign - I had never considered that I would not be able to put it up because I am in a residential area - part of my sign incorporates a poster I was sent by the council asking me to display it in a prominent position! (its about them supporting childcare development through funding)
My house is really tucked out of the way and is difficult to find so having a sign outside it has been really helpful and I have been complimented on it when DO and council workers (EHO) have visited. I had wanted to put one on my back gate as this is by the road and can be seen by passers by. Free advertising so to speak - do you think I would get told to take it down then or only if someone complains??!
I really respect you for going to so much effort to protect your children by visiting prospective parents and never having them in the house with minded children. But in reality I am sure not all other childminders do this (or are able to do this). I have visited 3 childminders when I visited looking for childcare for my sons and it was all during minding hours. all my parents have visited me during minded hours because they want to see what kind of environment their children will be playing in and presumably what kind of interaction I give the children.
You are also really fortunate that you are never in the house alone - my husband works when my parents want to come round so I am inevitably on my own and maybe this is something I should consider but I still don't see a problem with my address being on a website or a poster.

In answer to your question - yes most of the business comes through the list as it has all the childminders on it. When people phone me and I am full I say do you have the list and 9 times out of 10 they say yes and are working their way through it - if they say no i point them in the direction of the family information service. All the other childminders in the town as far as I know have always relied on the list for their business - that is how I found the childminders when I worked and I needed childcare.
I am the only one who uses posters, car signs and a website to promote myself because last year when I started there were 2 others that started just before me, the school went to single intake and the pre-schools were taking from 2 so i found it really difficult to fill my spaces as a newbie!!

Perhaps I am niave and I should be considering this more seriously or perhaps you are over-protective?
I will certainly be taking on board what you have said and just because I like to give my opinion please don't think I am having a go!!

You are right maybe I am over protective! I am happy after an initial interview for parents to visit while I am working but I feel then I don't have to pay them so much attention if you see what I mean.

I also guard my family home and would never want a poster outside. Our house isn't the easiest to find and so I have a map on the back of my brocuhre and it is the only thing that has my full address printed on it so I can give it to parents who have arranged a visit.

I would have put the council poster on an indoor notice board with my Ofsted stuff lol!

Hi Rickysmiths
I had my ofsted inspector here yesterday - I should have asked her opinion!

Hi Rickysmiths
I had my ofsted inspector here yesterday - I should have asked her opinion!

I would have done! Missed opportunity. How did the visit go?

Fine thanks - 20 minutes and just a few questions! Looks like I'll get my variation for when my hubby works with me to extend my numbers by the number of our own children (by 2).
I probably should have asked her. We were busy chatting and I was also quite busy interacting with the 13 month old. Also my 6 year old boy was playing up a bit (typical!) I did ask her for any tips on my inspection though! It's overdue!

Was looking for this being discussed in general chat, knew it had to be causing a fuss somewhere! It's absolutely disgraceful in my opinion...the things we have to do to keep Ofsted happy with our safeguarding procedures and with the emphasis that is on safeguarding today, how can they justify this???? I can't see how it would benefit anyone more than just giving a phone number...I don't deal with potential clients during my working hours anyway so I certainly wouldn't want them knocking on my door. Phone, make an appointment for an evening and then come again if you want to see me 'in practice' and we are both happy with that.

I think we should all complain and make a point of it, Ofsted are NOT right on everything, this is our career and these children are our responsibility. If anything should happen as a result of this Ofsted would be the first to have something to say and point the finger at our safegaurding policies. Let's stand up for what we believe and show Ofsted that we have power and a voice too! Please!!

Was looking for this being discussed in general chat, knew it had to be causing a fuss somewhere! It's absolutely disgraceful in my opinion...the things we have to do to keep Ofsted happy with our safeguarding procedures and with the emphasis that is on safeguarding today, how can they justify this???? I can't see how it would benefit anyone more than just giving a phone number...I don't deal with potential clients during my working hours anyway so I certainly wouldn't want them knocking on my door. Phone, make an appointment for an evening and then come again if you want to see me 'in practice' and we are both happy with that.

I think we should all complain and make a point of it, Ofsted are NOT right on everything, this is our career and these children are our responsibility. If anything should happen as a result of this Ofsted would be the first to have something to say and point the finger at our safegaurding policies. Let's stand up for what we believe and show Ofsted that we have power and a voice too! Please!!

I couldn't agree with you more but you do have the right to not have your address put on the web site.

The day they try to make it compulsory will the day I start to protest. :thumbsup: