East Lothian Council and partners are teaming up for the first ever childminder drop-in session for anyone passionate about childcare and eager to be their own boss.
The event, which it’s hoped will be the first in a series of drop-ins across East Lothian, will take place at The Bleachingfield Centre in Dunbar on Wednesday 24 January between 9.45am and 12 noon.
It will feature:
- Business Gateway East Lothian advising on how to set up as self-employed and highlighting the range of support available from Business Gateway including free workshops, webinars and events as well as information on sources of funding
- East Lothian Works providing information on training, qualifications and the Parental Transition Fund
- East Lothian Early Learning & Childcare Team to assist with the application process, training, support and next steps
- Job Centre Plus advising on Universal Credit, self-employment and Universal Childcare costs
An East Lothian Childminder told us: “There are so many benefits to this career. For me, it means having a job where I am not stuck at a desk and I am able to get outside and enjoy the East Lothian countryside or just my own back garden! It’s also great that I am able to work while looking after my own children and can pick my own hours and holidays. On a personal note, I feel that it has improved my parenting skills, as I put more time and thought into activities with my own and the childminded children. It’s also an amazing feeling when a child you care for is excited to come to your house.”
Cabinet Spokesperson for Economic Development, Councillor John McMillan, said: “Childminding is a rewarding and meaningful career, where you can nurture, educate and inspire the next generation. East Lothian has a growing population and the provision of quality childcare is an important element of the overall East Lothian offer, making it an attractive place in which to live, study and work. Childminders play a vital part in helping our children get the best start in life, offering solutions to support families to thrive here. This event will provide all the information you need if you are considering childminding as a career choice. Come along and meet representatives from East Lothian Council’s Economic Development Business Gateway, East Lothian Works and Early Years Teams who can help you to get started on your child-minding journey.”
Anyone unable to attend the session but looking for more information or support can email bgateway@eastlothian.gov.uk or phone 01620 827870.
Until 31 March, 2024, the Scottish Government is covering the cost of Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) checks for anyone starting in a childcare role.