Childminders

Food safety is very important to childcarers, such as childminders, because children are a vulnerable group, which means they can be more seriously affected by food poisoning than adults.

Since 2006, many childminders have been covered by food hygiene regulations. These regulations say that they need to keep a record of what they do to keep food safe. The Food Standards Agency has produced a special pack called ‘Safer food, better business for childminders’, which enables childminders to do this with as little paperwork as possible.

Childminders covered by the regulations will also need to register as a ‘food business operator’ with their local authority. These regulations do not apply to all childminders – it depends whether they regularly provide snacks or meals for the children in their care. The Agency has produced some guidance for childcarers, which explains how they can tell if they are covered by the regulations or not.

If you have any questions about food safety, or whether ‘Safer food, better business for childminders’ is suitable for you, contact the environmental health service at your local authority for advice.