A FATHER and childminder from Highbridge is encouraging others interested in making a difference to a child’s early years development to follow in his footsteps.

Andrew Rose, 34, a dad to three girls, became a registered childminder in 2013, and currently cares for a number of youngsters aged between 10 months and seven years.

It wasn’t until his daughters came along that he began to explore the possibility of becoming a childminder, but he had always thought about going into social work.

“Childminding is a worthwhile profession that has a lot of rewards,”said Andrew.

“I would encourage others, and especially men, to take the step to become a childminder and break the stereotype.

“For me being a childminder has enabled me to work around my children, receive up to date training and offer a place for other children to develop and learn with me and my family.

“Ifeelitis very importantto change the opinion of some that stereotype childminders, as everyone deserves to do what they enjoy doing.”

Somerset County Council is calling for individuals to consider childminding as a rewarding career with many benefits including working from home and providing a valuable service.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for children and families at Somerset County Council, said: “Some people have a fixed idea of who a childminder is or can be.

“There is also a misconception that childminding is just a step up from babysitting.

“This is far from the reality, as childminding professionals have to answer to the same standards and legislation as nurseries and schools.”

The council can offer start up support for insurance and documentation, guidance and training for childminders.

There is also a childminder mentoring scheme with 15 lead childminders Somerset-wide holding drop-in sessions, and offering peer-to-peer support.

New childminders can currently apply for a childcare business grant of up to £500 from central government to help with start-up costs – to find out more, call 01633 652143 or email childcaregrantenquiries@liberata.com

To find out more about becoming a registered childminder, and for an information pack, visit somerset.gov.uk/register, email sfid@somerset.gov.uk or call 030012 32224.