A Voice For Childminding
As a member of SCMA, you will help to support the Association in its work to develop childminding policy with key national bodies. SCMA helps to shape Local Authority and Central Government policy on childcare and lobby – on behalf of our members – to seek a better deal for all those involved in childminding, including parents. SCMA also represents childminders at Childcare Partnerships throughout Scotland, and we help to inform legislation relating to childminding.

Information
SCMA produces material to help childminders develop skills, knowledge and attitudes appropriate to delivering a quality childcare service. Our range of free or inexpensive publications and business aids are designed for childminding needs.

Briefing sheets provide information and answers to commonly asked questions which discuss issues that affect childminders. These can be requested from SCMA Head Office or if you are an SCMA member, you can download briefing sheets from the Member's Zone.

SCMA produces the quarterly Childminding magazine which goes out free to members. The magazine includes: news and current issues in childminding; reader competitions and give-aways; child development articles; make-and-do arts and crafts; and a letters page.

Support
SCMA encourages childminding groups to set up in their local area to network and for mutual support. The Association has a network of Childminding Development Officers who operate throughout Scotland providing support, information and training. SCMA also supports parents in selecting a suitable childminder and ensuring a positive relationship between them.

SCMA's HELPline
SCMA's HELPline is operated from our Head Office in Stirling (open Monday to Friday, 10.00 to 4.00pm, on 01786 449063). The HELPline is run for childminders and others, including parents, Local Authority workers and the Care Commission. You can also ask for information through this website; if you want to do that now, please click here. 

Insurance
SCMA has negotiated a comprehensive Public Liability Insurance for childminders. We also offer insurance for homes and motor vehicles which are being used for childminding purposes. For more information click here to be directed to the Insurance Section or contact our HELPline on 01786 449063.

Training
SCMA organises training locally and nationally to enable childminders to attain further skills and qualifications. We collaborate with Local Authorities and colleges to access appropriate opportunities for childminders, including pre- and post-registration training. Tell me more about training.

Funding
SCMA assists childminders who wish to access funding from other sources e.g. Working for Families Fund, Lottery Funding and Start-Up Grants. Your SCMA Childminding Development Officer can tell you more about the funding in your area, click here to find you local contact. 

AGM & Conference
This annual event, usually held in October, enables members and staff alike to share experiences, further skills and knowledge, whilst developing new contacts with like-minded professionals. The conference consists of a series of workshops and seminars specially selected for the childcare provision we work within and support. The event is rounded off with a gala dinner and dance.   

Improving Quality
SCMA aims to promote childminding as a quality childcare service and to this end has developed a quality assurance initiative for members. The initiative includes the Code of Practice, the Open Learning Preparation Training Pack and the Scheme of Excellence Award which is now credit rated and levelled on the Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework.