We're often asked if the childminding contract (between a parent and a childminder) has any bearing on the childminder's Public Liability Insurance (PLI).
The childminding contract is a document which sets out the terms of the agreement between the childminder and the parent. This should state key terms of the agreement such as fees, number of agreed hours/days the child will use the service, drop off and pick up times and number of weeks holiday. If there is a contract dispute between the parent and childminder, and SCMA contracts have been used, the childminder can seek free legal advice from our Legal Advice Team. This is a benefit of SCMA membership; it is not part of the Public Liability Insurance policy.
The contract has no bearing on the insurance cover.
The PLI policy is valid if the childminder is working within the terms of the Care Inspectorate registration.
Should you find yourself having to make a claim on your PLI you will be asked to submit an accident/incident report (if any harm has come to the child) and perhaps the attendance register. The insurer would not normally ask to see your contract.
We always recommend childminders use a contract however we want to make it clear that the contract is completely separate from your Public Liability Insurance policy.
What does my Public Liability Insurance policy cover?
If you have a query about your Public Liability Insurance or contracts please call the Helpline on 01786 449063.