Who we are and what we do

SCMA is the only organisation in Scotland dedicated to supporting all aspects of childminding. We provide a diverse range of support and professional services for our members and the wider childminding community.

Crucially, we provide a voice for professional childminding in Scotland. By working in partnership with the Scottish Government, local authorities and others, we help influence the development and implementation of policy and standards to ensure they are well informed by the experiences of professional childminders in Scotland.

We are a membership organisation and we are also a third sector organisation – so we have charitable status and we are also a service provider.

SCMA wears a lot of different hats; but we have one purpose - to support childminders in Scotland to provide the best service they can for children and their families.

Professional Development

SCMA develops and facilitates training and learning events, resources and professional support. This encourages development and diversity in childminding services and helps childminders to keep pace with the very latest developments in Early Learning and Childcare.

We also provide much-needed, specialist support for vulnerable families through our unique Community Childminding Service.

SCMA provides training and local support to childminders, who in turn offer short-term placements to families in need, allowing children to remain looked after in their communities. We would be delighted to hear from you if you would like to undertake training to become a Community Childminder

Our Helpline

We are very proud to provide a personalised one-to-one Helpline, where childminders and parents/carers can speak to one of our staff for expert advice and support. It is available at 01786 449063 and is open 10am – 4pm Monday to Friday.

Our Helpline supports childminders at all stages of their career, from newly registered to more experienced childminders – please do give us a call, we are always happy to help, no matter how big or small the question!

We collaborate with organisations such as the Care Inspectorate and HMRC to ensure our experts provide advice which is accurate and up-to-date.

Feedback tells us that our Helpline service is invaluable – particularly being able to speak to a real human being at the end of the line!