Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW)

The regulation of childcare services is the responsibility of Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) a division of the Welsh Assembly Government.   During April 2007, CSIW changed it's name to CSSIW. CSSIW registers and inspects a range of childcare services including day care services for children under 8 years of age provided by:-

• Childminders
• Day Nurseries
• Pre-school Playgroups / Cylch Meithrins
• Creche facilities
• Out of School Clubs
• Holiday Playschemes

Residential Children's homes, fostering and adoption services and residential family centres are also registered.

All childcare providers must meet National Minimum Standards and Regulations in order to become registered and to maintain these standards at all times when operating.  The  main aims of registrations are to promote quality standards and to protect children ensuring they are cared for in a safe and suitable surroundings.
 

CSSIW are keen to hear from parents / users who may have concerns about a childcare provider and will investigate complaints that may indicate that the National Minimum Standards are not being met.
 

National Minimum Standards

 
There are a series of documents setting out the National Minimum Standards for each of the services regulated by CSSIW.  They cover such areas as:-

• The suitability of adults caring for the children
• The experience and qualifications of adults caring for children
• The number of children who may be cared for
• The size and safety of the premises where children are cared for
  The activities provided to develop children's emotional, physical, social, creative and intellectual needs
• The quality of care and meeting children's individual needs
• Health and hygiene practice