What's the best way to find a childminder ?

[LucyJones]

Are there online sites to look through?

is it Gumtree or that just for Nannies lookign for work

This is where most are listed, it's a national database but not all childminders choose to be listed, most do. Enter your postcode and you'll get a list

HTH

I'm on Gumtree but I don't think it's somewhere people usually look for childminders, more for nanny's, au pairs etc I THINK

thanks
That childlink database is really useful

Initially search ChildcareLink, as you have already done. As not all providers are listed there, also contact your local Children's Information Service (you can find their phone number via ChildcareLink) and ask for their vacancies list.
You can also advertise yourself for a childminder, in say a local newsagents window - not sure how successful that would be.
You can ask other parents - always useful to get recommendations.
You could use a search engine to find local childminder websites - some childminders have their own websites.
Some softplay places have advertising boards, on which childminders are allowed to advertise - so another place to look.

Yes as already said, childcare link s the best official type site, you can look in yelow pages, do a general search under childminder your area etc. May of us have websites, and advertise in other sites, thomson, local free sites, look for names that come up reguarly, and then if you cantact them ask for their postcode, (or registration number if they are willing over the phone) and read their ofsted report on the Ofsted website. Not all good chilminders advertise or have websites but even if those who self promote are full they may be able to offer suggestions of other care local to you. research your local Network childminders, I undertand its normal practive that only those with good or outstanding reports are allowed to join government backed Networks, and they have far more formal visits and checks than the Ofsted minumum.