Childminding charity given royal training award

Tina Maltman, Executive Director of Childminding UK was given the Princess Royal Training Award

A charity which supports childminders across the UK has won a prestigious award for the second time.

Childminding UK picked up the Princess Royal Training Award, which was announced to coincide with Princess Anne's birthday last week.

The organisation, which is based in Kettering, Northamptonshire, was one of 57 commended.

Tina Maltman, executive director of Childminding UK said: "We firmly believe in the benefits childminding offers to children and their families and will continue to invest and improve our provision to our members."

It was formed in 1991 as the Northamptonshire Childminding Association and has since expanded to cover the whole of the country.

The not-for-profit organisation provides training, resources and support to childminders and parents.

It was commended by the awards judging panel, which said it provided "tailored training, safeguarding the future of childminding".

There was also praise for helping government reach its commitment to increasing the number of childminders.

Ms Maltman said: "Through training, accessing resources or directly interacting with our consultants for advice and guidance – we have built a strong and supportive community."

Childminding UK was first given the award in 2022 - which is the last time the award was up for grabs.

The awards, which are in their 10th year, are open to all organisations in the UK and Ireland.