Early years funding rates are set based on nursery ratios, and there’s growing recognition that this model doesn’t work well for childminder settings. Data that Coram PACEY released in autumn highlighted the impact of low 3- and 4-year old rates in particular, with many childminders having to reduce or limit places for this age group.

We are now exploring how an approach for funding might work better for childminders and allow you to better provide funded places and run your business sustainably. This survey is for you to share your views and insights to help us shape our early thinking in this area - we are not putting forward any definitive proposals at this early stage.