Latest Govt statistics show that childminder numbers have declined by 2% (752 less) in the last 6 months, there are now only 42,743 registered childminders in England.

Over the last 5 years the number of childminders have declined by 26%

Childcare providers and inspections as at 31 August 2017 - GOV.UK

Ofsted know why because we have told them - the quicker we can get the message to Govt the better!