A new campaign encouraging people to become childminders has been launched in Conservative-led East Sussex.
The ‘Do something big – work with small children’ campaign aims to highlight the benefits of childminding as a career. The campaign is supporting the ‘Be part of something big’ initiative to promote early-years careers.
Childminding can mean anything from working flexible, part-time hours to creating a business similar to a small nursery. Childminders can work at home, in a community hall, or partner with a local school and they can also employ assistants.
No formal qualifications are needed and the county council can offer support with training, registering with Ofsted or a childminding agency, and grant applications.
Conservative councillor Bob Bowdler, lead member for children and families at East Sussex County Council, said: “Childminding is changing. Whether you’re looking for a part-time opportunity or a full-time career, childminding offers a rewarding career with the flexibility to work around your family.
“It’s also a chance to shape young lives and make a difference to your local community. I would urge anyone who is interested in becoming a childminder to contact our Childcare Support Team to find out more about this rewarding and flexible career option.”
This grant is available to childminders who completed their registration with Ofsted or a childminder agency between September 1, 2024 and March 31, 2026.
Cllr Bowdler added: “Part-time wraparound care offers another flexible option to being a childminder.
“Wraparound hours could fit around your family life as well as providing the starting point to grow your business from when the time is right.”
For more information about becoming a childminder in East Sussex, visit Become a childminder | East Sussex County Council
Alternatively, people can contact the Childcare Support Team on 01323 463026 for an informal chat about childminding as a family friendly, flexible career option.
