Website of the UK government

Overview

The ChildcareLink national website provides childcare and early years information collected from over 170 English and Scottish local authorities, with sign-posting information to the Welsh National Assembly. The service is currently not operational in Northern Ireland but information and assistance is available on 0800 028 3008. 

The website helps you find useful information about the different types of childcare and early education in your local area and helps you to make the right choice for the whole family. The website also contains details of your local Children's Information Service, who can provide additional help and advice with all aspects of childcare and early years.

The details are updated on a regular basis and all providers are registered with, and inspected by, Ofsted, in England, and the Care Commission in Scotland.

How to use this service

You can search for childcare by clicking on the interactive map, entering your full postcode or your nearest town.

You will then be asked to select the type of childcare you are interested in. The list features childminders, creches, day nurseries, out of school care/holiday schemes, pre-school playgroups and toddler groups. Click one or more of the above. You can refine your search further by checking the box marked 'immediate vacancies only'.

Once you are satisfied with your selection, press 'continue'.

• ChildcareLink Opens new window

More useful links

• Search for Ofsted school reports
• Subscribe to the Ofsted email alerts service