A recent petition, spearheaded by the National Nanny Association (NNA), is calling on the Government to require nannies, tutors, and babysitters to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting their roles.
Currently, there’s no legal requirement for home-based childcare providers to have an enhanced DBS check. Additionally, self-employed professionals face challenges obtaining one themselves, leaving families and children in potentially vulnerable situations.
The NNA believes that ensuring all individuals working closely with children are screened for a criminal history is a straightforward but essential step in safeguarding their welfare. This forms part of the Association’s larger Road to Nanny Regulation campaign, which focuses on promoting the safety, wellbeing, and development of children across the UK.
Alison Bell and Maria Culley, founders of the NNA, emphasised the urgency of the issue:
“We’re urging the Government to require all nannies, tutors, and babysitters to hold a valid enhanced DBS check before starting their roles. This critical step will create a safer environment for children, protect families, and align home-based care with other childcare settings.”
Beyond DBS checks, the NNA envisions broader reforms to professionalise the industry. Their goals include mandatory first aid training, consistent child development knowledge, food hygiene qualifications, and nanny insurance for sole-charge nannies. By introducing these standards, the Association hopes to establish childcare as a respected and regulated career path.
The petition marks a pivotal moment for families and caregivers alike, highlighting the importance of prioritising safety and professional excellence in home-based childcare.
