Questioning the illegality of childcare swaps

[elisaterren]

Hi Moms in the UK,
Im a mother of two, 7 years old and 3 years old.
I'm a bit shocked to find out that it is illegal to look after someone else's child under 8 years old, for more than 2hours a day (unless they are family) without being registered as a Childminder.

There was a case of 2 policewomen being prosecuted for looking after each other's child while the other worked so they could do their work and support each other. He law states that it is illegal to provide childcare for a "reward". These women had no monetary exchange, but the law stated that reviving childcare in return was deemed a reward.

I think the police woman's arrangement a brilliant and fair arrangement. I myself childcare swapped (abroad) and it was such a great mutually beneficial arrangement, and so great for the kids. I'm now shocked to find it's not legal to do so in this country.

The childcare support bubbles during lockdowns have been a life saver and proof of the value of mothers/families supporting each other.

I appreciate these laws are generally put in place for child protection, yet I don't think this one is achieving it. It limits the options we mothers have. It fuels mistrust. It makes it compulsory to pay for childcare. Especially that crucial period from birth till 3 years old where there's no government support for childcare.
I think we should have the choice to childcare swap if we deem it safe, beneficial for the child, and both parties are in agreement. Being a registered Childminder is no guarantee that the person is trust worthy and a good carer. I have found other mothers to be much more in tune with my values and with whom I feel much more trusting to leave my child. Also the benefit of having similar aged playmates.

Am I the only one that finds this law questionable and wants to challenge it? Are there others that would be interested in challenging it? Are there lawyers here that are interested in this??

I look forward to hearing from all you wonderful mamas,
Elisa

So you think safeguarding should be eroded?

Just because you think you made safe judgements about who helped you, doesn't mean everyone would or is capable of doing so effectively.

I would however agree that childcare should be a cost for society rather than treated as a luxury for individuals.

I think it's mad. Family could be equally untrustworthy.

I know there is a small risk, but that risk is true for family too.

I think you should be able to make the decision that best works for you, but I don’t agree with the tax payer should pay for everyone’s childcare .

The law changed intercom.help/korukids/en/articles/3787999-is-it-legal-to-have-reciprocal-childcare-arrangements

The case of the 2 policewomen is now over a decade old. The law was clarified and a childcare swap where there is no reward involved is permitted.

www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/744/made

You sight how well things have worked through covid but under 5s have suffered. Domedtic abuse is through the roof under 5s have had regression and delays the purpose of registered care is not justvso patents can work it is for their development going to a childminder is like a nursery with the same activities and support. A typical day in mine includes free access painting, craft table, sensory area (scented oats today) playdo, music, physical activities(dance today, yoga yesterday) outdoor play a permanent mark making area, role play area, free access to puzzles and toys, dress up, lighthouses, dens. Not going to a friends house playing with their kids whilst the TV id on and housework done. I'm a trained Senco and portage worker and offer support for bereavement, mental health and more.
Most abuse is by those trusted friends and family....and the referals through lockdown are also through the roof.

I agree with everything @jannier has said. Young children’s lives at the moment are nothing like they were 18 months ago and I think good quality, registered childcare with a properly trained practitioner is a really good way of trying to bridge the gap for them.

Going for a play date with a friend is, in my experience, not the same thing at all.