What is the best type of childcare to get to cover irregular working hours

[Servalan]

I'm considering trying to get extra (i.e. "supporting artist") work through agencies in the new year - with some gaps filled in with temping work.

I have a 5 yo dd who might need to be taken to and picked up from school with maybe some childcare hours filled in, and am wondering what would be the best type of childcare to use if work I do is sporadic and I don't necessarily know from one week to the next when/how long I am working for.

I have been a SAHM up until now, so really unsure of what childcare option would be the best in a case like this.

Thanks for any ideas.

There probably is not a best solution.

I would suggest you contact local Childminders (your local Families Information Service will have a list of Registered Childminders) and see who is able to collect from the school your DD attends.

Also ask friends, as going on an after-school playdate once in while may well be possible as long as you are willing to have their child come to play at your home in return. No payment to exchange hands - needs to be an agreement between friends. See The Childcare (Exemptions from Registration) (Amendment) Order 2010