Supporting families through challenges and times of need

SCMA’s Community Childminding Service provides support to vulnerable families during times of need, crisis or as an intervention to prevent one from occurring. In the last three years alone, our Community Childminding Service has helped more than 900 vulnerable families in Scotland.

Families may be referred for a number of reasons, from behavioural issues to stress caused by relationship breakdowns or a parent experiencing mental illness. Community Childminders can enhance the wellbeing of children and their families by providing a safe space, away from the stressful situation where they can focus on their specific needs.

Find out more about our Community Childminding Service
Read our Community Childminding Case Studies

Childminders play a vital role in 'making a difference' and improving outcomes for the development and wellbeing of children and their families, which is fundamental to the Community Childminding Service.

Where is Community Childminding available?

Aberdeen City
Fife
Scottish Borders (known here as the 'Supported Childminding Scheme')
City of Glasgow

Interested in becoming a Community Childminder?

If you live in one of the four areas (listed opposite) and are happy to attend specialist training, please get in touch with SCMA by calling 01786 445377 or email information@childminding.org.

Referrals and eligibility

Families are referred to the Community Childminding Service by health visitors, social workers and family support workers. Referrals may be for a variety of reasons - from children with behavioural issues to a parent with mental illness. Children will typically have short term placements with a Community Childminder, for up to eight hours a week over a six to 26-week period. Although this is available for children of any age, the majority tend to be age three and under.

As always, the child is paramount and care is tailored to their individual needs, with a particular focus on developing resilience and achieving crucial milestones. The eight Wellbeing Indicators (GIRFEC) are used to map achievements and measure success.