Council salutes award-winning childminders

2.20.32pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 22nd Sep 2007

The dedication and enthusiasm of three Teddington childminders was recognised by a prestigious national award last weekend.

Husband and wife Helen and Tony Swan, and business partner Indie Kaur, won Childminder of the Year at the annual conference and awards staged by the industry magazine "Early Years Educator". They were recognised for their outstanding care for children with complex health needs and their sensitivity to parents who were often leaving their disabled child in someone else's care for the first time. Their nomination was backed by parents and the borough's Disabled Children Team. The Council, which part-sponsored the awards, is now calling for more people to become childminders and offers sponsored qualification, career support and mentoring.

Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Education on Richmond Council, said: "Helen, Tony and Indie are superb role models and their commitment and enthusiasm has a huge, positive impact on the lives of children in their care. They richly deserve this prestigious award. I hope their success inspires more local people to pursue a career in childcare. The Council is continually working to boost the numbers of registered childminders in the borough and offers a variety of incentives to people looking to start a career."