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Childminder Development Grant (CMDG)
Under the National Childcare Investment Programme a new and enhanced grant of €1000 is available to home-based childminders. The grant should be used to improve the quality of service to children. There are a number of criteria which needs to be fulfilled to qualify for the grant and these are as follows;
Applicants must take part in a 12 hour training course called The Quality Awareness Programme (QAP). This is a free course and will be run during the evenings.
The Childminder must commit to minding at least 1 child full-time and 1 child part-time.
To avail of the maximum grant the Childminder must give a commitment to operate as a Childminder for 2 years with a pro-rata reduction in the grant amount where a shorter term commitment is given, e.g €500 grant available for 1 year childminding.
The Childminder must have insurance for their service. The grant cannot be used to purchase insurance. The Childcare Committee can advise on competitive rates of insurance.
All applicants must Voluntary Notify their childminding service to Waterford City Childcare Committee. The Childminding Advisory Officer can guide and support you through this process.
The Application Process
Step 1. The Childminder must complete the Quality Awareness Programme (QAP). Courses are organised by Waterford City Childcare Committee (WCCC).
Step 2. The Childminder must purchase insurance, information available from WCCC
Step 3. The Childminder must submit a list and cost of equipment they wish to purchase to WCCC on the official application form
Step 4. If the grant application is successful the Childminder is informed and and can proceed to buy the equipment and will be reimbursed promptly by cheque on production of receipts.
Suggested Equipment
The main aim of the grant is to improve opportunities for child development, play, health and safety and so we encourage applications that are based on good quality equipment such as car seats, buggy’s, cots, fire safety and first aid equipment. Toys that compliment outdoor play are encouraged.
For more information on enrolling on the Quality Awareness Programme (12 hour training course), grant applications or voluntary notification of your childminding service please contact Susan our Childminder Advisory Officer.
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