The number of childminders in England has roughly halved over the past decade, with many citing rising costs, low pay, and increasing paperwork as reasons for leaving the profession. Childcare organisations have also warned that upcoming tax changes could push more childminders out of the sector.
Impact on Families
Campaigners say the decline is making it harder for families to find flexible and affordable childcare, particularly in areas already struggling with shortages. Parents are facing difficulties balancing work and family responsibilities as childminder options dwindle.
Share Your Experience
We want to hear from childminders who are considering leaving the profession, as well as parents and carers who have been affected. Are you a childminder thinking about quitting – and if so, why? How have rising costs, funding rates, paperwork or changes to tax rules affected you? Or are you a parent whose childminder has recently left the profession? How has this affected your family, childcare arrangements or ability to work?
You can share your experience using this form. Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. For more information please see our terms of service and privacy policy.
Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For alternative ways to get in touch securely please see our tips guide.
Contact us on WhatsApp at +447766780300. For more information, please see our guidance on contacting us via WhatsApp. For fully anonymous communication please use our Secure Messaging service instead.
