Childminders will already be familiar with the on-going self-evaluation procedure with the Care Inspectorate; already having systems and paperwork in place as part of previous self-assessments and updating these regularly. You should also be aware that since last summer the Care Inspectorate now carries out inspections focusing specifically on the new Key Question 5; How good is our care and support during the COVID-19 pandemic? Key Question 5 asks childminders to evaluate how you have been supporting children and families during COVID-19, by gathering information and evidence to support how you have implemented the national guidance for COVID-19, whilst ensuring positive outcomes for children and keeping them safe during this time.
The Care Inspectorate developed a step-by-step guide to help you with this, which is very easy to follow, where you will be able to identify and recognise your strengths and possible areas for improvement. The guide also provides a selection of ‘very good’ and ‘weak’ examples to help you when you are reflecting on your own setting and practice. It is really important that you read and familiarise yourself with the Care Inspectorate’s
guide to self-evaluation during COVID-19
Need more support?
The Care Inspectorate has produced a series of online bitesize videos and resources to support services to complete their Key Question 5 self-evaluation. The sessions share some pointers and reminders to help you with the new Key Question 5 and your self-assessment.
Further information and access to the
Care Inspectorate's resources
SCMA has been highlighting the importance of Key Question 5 since its introduction and we have been raising awareness of this in various editions of Childminding News - we also have an FAQ on our
Covid-19 support page.
We are encouraging all childminders to read the Care Inspectorate’s guide to self-evaluation carefully, and then complete the Key Question 5 Self-Evaluation Tool as soon as possible!
This will form part of your on-going and continual self-evaluation. Your complete and up-to-date self-assessment (including Key Question 5) with the Care Inspectorate will be used by your inspectorate to assess how well your setting is managing the COVID-19 situation.
Key Question 5 Self-Evaluation Tool