30073-79 CHILDMINDER Debbie Southern has hit out at suggestions that Swindon's childcare sector is in crisis.

According to Government records, the town needs thousands of extra playgroup and childminder places to cope with demand.

The Department for Education and Skills says Swindon has 6,700 registered placements for children.

But figures show there are currently 18,100 youngsters living in Swindon who qualify for childcare.

Mrs Southern, a childminder with 10 years experience, believes the Government has failed to do its sums.

She said: "Those figures include children up to the age of eight. Clearly many of them will be at school during the day and may not need full-time childcare, although some may be required after school.

"This creates a distorted picture and makes it seem there's a big problem when there isn't.

"Although I do not have any vacancies to fill at the moment a lot of childminders in Swindon do and they are really struggling.

"I believe the town has too many registered childminders, not too few. Information like this will only make matters worse."

Clare Whatley, 31, a childminder of three years, from Park South, has all the qualifications but still needs to fill two places.

"I've had these vacancies since September and there has been no interest," she said.

"There are an awful lot of people in the same position in Swindon.

"I think people still see us as glorified baby-sitters and think we are too expensive."

Now Mrs Southern, 40, of Woodhall Park, fears Swindon could be inundated with childminders eager to cash-in on the apparent crisis.

She said: "People think it is quick, easy work but it is hard. Many childminders work 10-hour days and have their own children to look after."

Currently, all three and four-year-olds are entitled to five, 2hr 45min care sessions a week. But only childminders with an accreditation can look after these children.

Swindon College and TNT Training in Rodbourne are the only places running these intensive three-part courses.

Mrs Southern, who is fully registered, says she is struggling to get on one.

Sue Pearson, of Swindon's Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership, also downplayed talk of a crisis.

"Swindon has 380 registered childminders and we believe there are sufficient childcare places to meet demand," she said.

"I am certainly not aware of a shortage. We must remember that out of the 18,100 children needing care many will use after-school clubs."

Kevin Shoesmith