1.6 Identify sources of support and information for the setting up and running of your home-based childcare service

This guide will help you answer 1.6 Identify sources of support and information for the setting up and running of your home-based childcare service.

Setting up and running a home-based childcare service in England involves many responsibilities. You need access to reliable sources of support and information. This helps you meet legal requirements, operate safely, and provide high-quality care. In this unit, the focus is on recognising where to find that support and how to use it effectively.

Starting a service means you must be familiar with childcare regulations, business management, safeguarding, health and safety, and good practice in supporting children’s learning and development. Different sources will meet different needs. Some will support you with legal compliance. Others will give guidance on day-to-day care or business running.

Ofsted

Ofsted is the regulator for childcare services in England. It inspects and registers early years settings, including home-based childcare such as childminders. Ofsted is a key source of information about legal requirements.

Ofsted provides:

• Guidance on registration
• Information on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) standards
• Inspection reports and criteria
• Advice on safeguarding responsibilities
• Templates and forms needed for compliance

Their website contains policy documents, inspection handbooks, and training materials. Contacting their helpline can clarify specific queries. Before you start, you must check Ofsted’s guidance on premises suitability, required paperwork, and DBS checks.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework

The EYFS sets the standards for learning, development, and care for children from birth to age five. It is published by the Department for Education and is legally binding for registered childcare providers.

Sources for EYFS support include:

• The Department for Education website
• EYFS statutory framework documents
• Professional associations’ fact sheets
• Local authority early years teams

These sources explain how to plan activities, assess children’s progress, and meet safeguarding requirements. They give practical examples of age-appropriate learning and how to support different areas of child development.

Local Authority Early Years Team

Local authorities have early years teams who support childcare providers in their area. These teams can advise on:

• Registration processes with Ofsted
• Funding for places for three and four-year-old children
• Special educational needs inclusion
• Professional development courses
• Local safeguarding procedures

They often run workshops, drop-in sessions, and provide individual advice. They may visit your setting to offer guidance on meeting EYFS requirements or improving the environment. Local authorities also link you to other childcare professionals for peer support.

Childminding Associations

Childminding associations are membership organisations that support home-based childcare professionals. Examples include the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY).

They offer:

• Training courses and webinars
• Access to policy templates
• Insurance schemes
• Advice on running a childcare business
• Networking opportunities

Associations give peer-to-peer support and updates on changes in regulations. They often produce newsletters and online resources that address both care practice and business management.

Professional Networking and Peer Support

Working from home can feel isolating. Professional networks give you contact with others facing similar challenges. This support can be found in:

• Local childminder groups
• Online forums and social media groups for childcare workers
• Community centres offering professional workshops
• Training events where providers share experiences

These groups help with problem-solving, sharing resources, and staying motivated. They can give practical solutions for daily issues like meal planning, activity ideas, or dealing with difficult behaviour.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

The HSE provides information on keeping children safe in your care. This includes risk assessments, accident reporting, and workplace safety for home settings.

HSE guidance covers:

• Safe storage of cleaning chemicals
• Fire safety measures
• Managing trips and falls risks
• Guidance on first aid requirements
• Reporting serious incidents

Using HSE resources supports compliance with health and safety laws and helps to maintain a secure environment for children.

Safeguarding Boards and Policies

Safeguarding partnerships or boards operate at local authority level. They coordinate child protection procedures across agencies. Home-based childcare providers must follow their policies.

Sources include:

• Local safeguarding partnership websites
• Government statutory guidance documents
• Training courses on child protection

These resources explain how to recognise signs of abuse, report concerns, and work with other agencies to protect children. They often publish updates when laws or procedures change.

Business Support Services

Running a childcare service involves business as well as care. You need help with finances, marketing, contracts, and tax.

Possible sources of business support:

• Local enterprise agencies
• Business courses at adult learning centres
• Accountants experienced in childcare sector
• HM Revenue & Customs guidance for self-employed people
• Online business planning tools

These sources can help you write a business plan, manage income and expenditure, set fees, and handle tax returns. They can also guide you on insurance needs for both public liability and property.

Training Providers

Training providers offer courses on childcare practice, health and safety, and business skills. Many training providers work with local authorities and associations.

Training can cover:

• Paediatric first aid
• Safeguarding children
• EYFS implementation
• Food hygiene
• Managing behaviour
• Inclusive practice

Attending courses builds your skills and confidence. It keeps you up to date with new recommendations and regulations.

Food Standards Agency (FSA)

If you prepare and serve food, you need to follow food safety laws. The FSA provides information on safe storage, preparation, and serving of food.

Their resources include:

• Hygiene training
• Guidance on allergens
• Kitchen safety posters
• Advice for childminders supplying meals

Following FSA advice reduces risks of food poisoning and ensures compliance with law.

Insurance Providers

Specialist insurance is a legal requirement for registered childminders. Insurance protects against claims from accidents or injuries.

Sources of information include:

• Professional associations with member insurance schemes
• Independent insurance brokers
• Specialist childcare insurance providers

These services explain levels of cover needed and can provide public liability, employers’ liability, and property cover. They give advice on risk management to reduce potential claims.

Parents and Families

Families can be a valuable source of practical information. Talking to parents gives insight into what local families need and expect.

Parents may share:

• Feedback on routines and activities
• Cultural and dietary needs
• Suggestions for improving communication

Parent feedback helps shape your service to meet real needs. It can guide adjustments to policies, schedules, or learning activities.

Government Websites

Government websites provide the most current legislation and guidance on childcare and business operations.

Examples:

• GOV.UK for legal requirements, funding details, and childcare policies
• HMRC for self-employment guidance
• Department for Education for EYFS and safeguarding documents

These sites are reliable for official updates, which is important for keeping your service compliant.

Community Resources

Community organisations, libraries, and children’s centres offer free or low-cost resources. They can host events, give activity ideas, and connect you to local services.

Examples:

• Local activity listings for children
• Access to lending libraries for books and toys
• Community health services such as breastfeeding support groups

Using community resources can improve children’s learning and social experiences without high costs.

Early Years Consultants

Independent consultants specialise in advising childcare providers. They can give tailored guidance for your setting.

Consultants cover:

• EYFS planning and assessment
• Room layout and equipment choice
• Behaviour management strategies
• Compliance checks before an Ofsted inspection

Hiring a consultant can bring expert insight for improving your service quality.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right sources of support is an ongoing task. Setting up and running a home-based childcare service involves many areas where guidance is needed. Legal requirements may change and best practice develops over time, so keeping connected to reliable sources is important.

Support from regulators, local authorities, associations, professional peers, and parents helps you stay informed and confident. Combining formal training with informal networks creates a strong foundation for your childcare practice. By using these sources actively, you can provide safe, high-quality care and run a successful home-based childcare service.