Childcare At Home Voluntary Approval Scheme
About the Scheme
The Childcare At Home Approval Scheme in Wales took effect
in February 2007 and is being run by Care and Social Services
Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW), the Approval Body.
The Scheme allows childcare providers, such as nannies who are
unable to register with the CSSIW, a way of being apporved as
suitable childcare. By using an approved carer, a parent may be
able to claim the childcare element of the Working Tax Credit.
The approval fee, payable on application, is currently £104 and
includes the cost of an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure
(CRB check).
The scheme is voluntary and only applies to childcare provided
in Wales.
In order to be approved under this scheme the carer has to meet
the following criteria at the point of application or renewal:
- Must be aged 18 years or over.
- Must have an existing qualification on the National Framework
of Accredited Qualifications for Early Years, Childcare and
Playwork at level 2 or higher.
- Hold a first aid certificate which is less than three years
old, suitable for the care of babies and young children and which
covers dealing with emergencies, resuscitation, shock, choking and
anaphylactic shock.
- Be able to demonstrate that there is nothing in their past
which would suggest that they are unsuitable to care for children
(usually via a CRB check). Approval is valid for twelve
months.
Nannies do not have to be approved to care for a child in the
parent’s own home, but there are a number of benefits for parents
and those who employ them if they are approved.
Benefits to Parents
By using a nanny approved under this scheme, there is a greater
level of reassurance that the person you are employing has met the
minimum requirements,, including an enhanced Criminal Records
Bureau check. The scheme also provides confirmation that the
person holds a recently acquired first aid certificate and a
suitable child care qualification. Using an approved nanny means
you may also be eligible for Working Tax Credit or other financial
help such as employer supported childcare. For more information on
eligibility for the Working Tax Credit, please contact HM Revenue
and Customs on 0845 300 3900.
Benefits to Nannies
By taking part in the Voluntary Approval scheme, you benefit
from being part of a scheme that will be recognised Wales-wide. The
scheme recognises that you have met basic requirements for child
care including an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check, suitable
child care qualification and current first aid certificate.
There is also the possibility of increased opportunity for
employment by parents who may be able to claim tax credits for
using approved child care. You can find out more about the
application process by looking at our FAQs.
What the scheme does not do?
The scheme does not verify that a child carer is eligible to
work in the UK. This remains the responsibility of the employer. It
also does not guarantee that parents will be eligible for financial
support and this should be checked with HM Revenue and
Customs.
For more information, download the following documents:
Contact
Childcare At Home Voluntary Approval Scheme, CSSIW
Tel: 03000 628888
Website:
Childcare At Home Approval Scheme