The UK government has advocated for childminders to be permitted to operate their childcare services from their rented residences in a bid to increase the availability of childcare options for families. Children’s Minister Claire Coutinho has reached out to housing associations, social landlords, and developers across England, urging them to reassess any restrictive clauses present in tenant contracts that might hinder such endeavors.
Despite this move, the Early Years Alliance has expressed skepticism about the potential impact, suggesting that this approach may have limited effect in addressing the broader childcare shortage issue.
The government has previously committed to a significant expansion of free childcare services in England. However, concerns have arisen about the insufficient capacity to fulfill this pledge. Childminders have noted that government funding falls short of covering their operational costs, prompting some to leave the profession.
Over the past decade, the number of childminders in operation within England has more than halved, according to the Department for Education. The presence of blanket bans within tenancy agreements that prohibit commercial activities from being conducted in rented homes has been identified as one reason behind this decline.
Data collected by the agency Tiney indicates that prospective childminders, especially those residing in leasehold properties, often encounter challenges in securing permission to work from home due to restrictive covenants imposed by property agreements.
Additionally, certain renters find their ability to register their business restricted by their tenancy agreements or their landlords’ mortgage terms, which may incorporate usage limitations.
Minister Coutinho acknowledged the challenges faced by aspiring childminders and emphasized the importance of offering flexibility and quality in childcare services to meet parents’ needs.
In parallel efforts to support the childminding sector, the government has suggested allowing childminders to collaborate in groups of up to four individuals and to work more extensively outside their residences, such as in community centers or village halls. Furthermore, consultations on shortening registration times to approximately 10 weeks and ensuring monthly payments from local authorities to childminders are in the pipeline.
To provide further assistance, childcare start-up grants valued up to £1,200 are also set to be introduced.
