I recall reading something about the regulations on childminders being relaxed so that use of minders other than those registered under the present rules could result in childcare costs qualifying for TCs. Now I need it and can't find it! Does anyone know if anything is happening, please - or was it just newspaper gossip I was reading?

see rightsnet news story .... and links from it @

http://www.rightsnet.org.uk/cgi-bin/forwardsql/search.cgi?template2=user_details2.htm&output_number=1&news.ID=21164923229

There are new regulations aplicable from April. These allow nannies, and childminders for children of eight and over, to become approved childcarers. this still involves a CRB check, and the individual must be 18 or over, have a basic childcare qulaification or have attended a chidlcare induction course and have a valid first aid certificate. They are then approved for purposes of WTC childcare element.
Go to www.surestart.gov.uk/childcareapproval
Approval is run by Nestor Primecare Services helpline number 0845 7678 111

new statutory instrument published by the Inland Revenue this morning ....see rightsnet news @

http://www.rightsnet.org.uk/cgi-bin/forwardsql/search.cgi?template2=user_details2.htm&output_number=1&news.ID=321122316194