NEW, aspiring childminders in South Scotland are being offered a package of support to kick-start their new business.
It is all part of the Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future (PSCF) and South of Scotland Enterprise’s Pathways Project.
PSCF aims to grow the workforce and bring about positive change for childminding, while Pathways is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs in the south of Scotland find the confidence and strength to begin their business journey.
Funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA), the package available provides a minimum £750 start-up grant, personalised one-to-one support from dedicated childminding workforce support officers, free training and an additional £1000 top up, available in Dumfries and Galloway through Pathways.
More childminders are needed across the region, where the creation of childminding businesses supports valuable employment opportunities and provides essential childcare services for families in rural areas.
The most important thing for a potential childminder is being able to provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment where children can learn, thrive and grow.
Jackie Madeley from the Glenkens just opened her new setting last month after becoming a registered childminder with support from the PSCF.
She said: “I feel really supported by SCMA. When I decided I’d like to find out more about childminding, I filled in an online enquiry form, and one of the team got back to me really quickly. I knew I could pick up the phone and speak to the same person throughout the whole process.
“To anyone who would love to work with children, I’d say to go for it!”
Graeme McAlister, chief executive of SCMA, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people in Dumfries and Galloway to start a fulfilling and rewarding career with financial and practical support to help get started.”
Places are limited – visit www.childminding.org/getstarted for more information.
