Just a light touch, please

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

Now is the time for nannies to start applying for the new 'light touch' Childcare Approval Scheme that comes into effect in April. Last month the Government finally spelled out the details of this voluntary scheme, which makes parents with a combined income of up to 59,000 eligible for tax credits if they employ an approved carer in their home. To be approved, a nanny must be at least 18, hold a paediatric first aid certificate issued within the past three years, have a relevant qualification (as listed on the website below) or attend an approved induction course in childcare, and pass an enhanced disclosure check from the Criminal Records Bureau. The approval scheme also applies to parents given vouchers for childcare costs by their own employers.