Childminders are childcare professionals who care for other people's children in a safe and caring environment in their own home. They play a key role in supporting and nurturing children's development. They often develop a special relationship with the child(ren) and their families, replicating a rich and personalised experience that many parents give their children in their own home.

Childminders normally care for children from three months old. Some are able to collect children from school, and many carry on caring for school-aged children before and after school, and during school holidays.

Childminders are required by law to be registered with Ofsted if they offer a childcare service in their own home for more than two hours per day for children aged under eight years.

There are approximately 200 childminders in Shropshire. Information about each childminder’s quality assessment by Ofsted is available on the Ofsted website. For a list of childminders in your area, please contact the Family Information Service on 01743 254400.