1. Introduction to Childminding Costs
Becoming a registered childminder in the UK is a rewarding career choice, but it comes with financial commitments. Understanding how much does it cost to become a childminder helps aspiring carers budget properly and avoid unexpected expenses.
2. Registration Costs with Ofsted
Most childminders must register with Ofsted in England. The fees are:
- £35 per year if you only look after children aged 5–7.
- £103 per year if you also care for children under 5.
3. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Checks
Every adult living in your household must undergo a DBS check. Costs usually include:
- £52 for each enhanced DBS check
- Additional admin or update service fees (around £13 per year)
4. Training and Qualifications
Childminders must complete training before registration, such as:
- Paediatric First Aid Course – £80 to £120
- Childminder Training / Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – £150 to £300
5. Health and Safety Requirements
You may need to invest in:
- Fire safety equipment (alarms, extinguishers) – £50 to £150
- Safety gates, locks, and childproofing – £100 to £500 depending on your home setup
6. Insurance Costs
- Public Liability Insurance – £60 to £100 per year
- Employer’s Liability Insurance (if hiring assistants) – £100+ per year
- Optional contents insurance for toys and equipment
7. Equipment and Resources
Childminders must provide safe, engaging environments, which may require:
- Toys, books, and games – £200 to £500
- Furniture (high chairs, cots, mats) – £150 to £400
- Outdoor play equipment – £100+
8. Food Hygiene and Business Costs
- Local authority food hygiene registration – usually free
- Food preparation training (if required) – £30 to £100
9. Ongoing Annual Costs
After setup, expect yearly costs such as:
- Ofsted renewal fee
- DBS update service
- Insurance renewals
- Replacement of toys and resources
10. Total Estimated Costs
Depending on your circumstances, the cost to become a childminder ranges between:
- £500 and £1,500 for initial setup
- £200 to £400 per year ongoing costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I get funding to cover childminder costs?
Yes. Some local councils provide grants or support for training and setup costs.
Q2: Do I need to pay for each household member’s DBS check?
Yes. All adults over 16 living in your home need one.
Q3: Is Ofsted registration mandatory for all childminders?
Yes, unless you only care for close relatives’ children.
Q4: Do I need a separate business license?
No, but you must register with Ofsted and follow local regulations.
Q5: How long does the registration process take?
It can take 3–6 months, depending on training, DBS checks, and inspections.
Q6: Can I deduct these costs as business expenses?
Yes. Once registered, setup and ongoing costs are tax-deductible business expenses.
Conclusion
So, how much does it cost to become a childminder? On average, you’ll need between £500 and £1,500 to cover registration, training, insurance, and equipment. While there are ongoing annual fees, childminding is a relatively low-cost business to set up compared to other childcare services. With careful budgeting and potential council support, becoming a childminder is an achievable and rewarding career path.