AIBU

[ym10146]

I am trying employ a childminder who says they are ofsted registered. I have seen a copy of the report but when I search online, Using the name and address it's not coming up.

Should I be suspicious? I have no idea (first child) if this is normal and some are not available online, but just trying to carry out checks that were recommended on a childcare website.

Advice please

When you say report, do you mean inspection report? If yes then it should be online as all OFSTED reports are published.

You should be able to search for whatever name was on the front of the inspection report. Ask the childminder to 'remind' you what it is so you can look it up as you can't find it.

Childminders can choose to be listed by their registration number rather than name and address; they are working from home with small children, after all.

Not suspicious at all.

Just to add you can search by area. Also OFSTED use unique reference numbers (URN) so you could ask the childminder for that.

You can ask your county council for a list of registered childminders in your area.

Thank you for all the replies. I didn't realise that names and addresses could be withheld but it makes sense for the security of the children.