My childminder wants full fees but isn’t she getting money back from the government?

How long as she been a childminder? To get any help she has to have submitted 3 years worth of tax returns, too be honest the financial “help” by the time they then take off the tax and National Insurance I will be lucky to get 30% of what’s been Promised to me.

Has she formally closed ?

The government help for the self employed does not come until June, can't you discuss a reduced fee with her rather than fees in full?

I also think arranging payment with 1/2 fees and no contract could get messy - as if parents are paying using HMRC funding (childcare account) ie you're paying for a service your not technically getting - it may be double whammy for parents - trying to help out a childminder. Both parties will have to be transparent to HMRC. It's causing me a lot of worry about if my children will have places as both our incomes next month will be reduced. A lot of parents are in the same boat.

Are you choosing not to send your child? Or has she actually closed? First scenario: pay her in full. Second: nothing. Or maybe a retainer.

Is she open for the children of keyworkers?

If she is agree a small amount that is a retainer to keep your place open. You cannot pay full fees as your income is reduced and you can't send your child to her as you aren't a keyworker.

If she is closed including to the children of keyworkers then tell because she is completely closed you aren't paying her anything.

My husband and I are key workers. My childminder has closed and it is a struggle working with toddler at home.
She says she was told to close by the LA though so under our contract have to pay half fees. Maybe offer to pay half if you can afford it?

Its 80% of your last years and payable around June if you've had heavy expenses like purchasing new equipment, set up costs your income is reduced. If you've had spaces your incomes reduced etc.
If your paying a retainer there will be no problem with HMRC.
Maybe discuss reduced payments.