What is a contract?
A contract is a legally binding agreement between you and the childcare provider. It should contain:
- retainer fees such as deposits
- childcare costs
- extra costs
- agreed hours/days of attendance
- procedure for late pickups
- holiday and sick information
- payment method and pay date
- length of contract
- notice period
- any personal requests
Read the small print
Common concerns are over conditions in the contract so read it carefully. If you are not happy with the contract, discuss it with the childcare provider and try to negotiate something you can both agree to.
What do if you are unhappy with the childcare?
If you are unhappy with the service, speak to the childcare provider.
If you are still concerned, put your concerns in writing with a date, and keep a copy. All childcare providers will have a complaints procedure.
The provider must keep you informed and take appropriate action if you have concerns. You should receive a response to your complaint within 28 days of receipt, stating the outcome of the investigation, planned action or action taken.
If a complaint has not been resolved, contact Ofsted.
Contract disputes
If you need advice about contract disputes, contact your local Citizen’s Advice.
Child protection concerns
If you have concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child, contact Warwickshire Children and Families Front Door on 01926 414144.