GRANNIES and childminders will be exempt from the new ‘rule of six’ and won’t face £100 fines for taking care of kids, Matt Hancock said today.
Anyone looking after someone under the age of 14 so their parents can continue to go out to work won’t face any extra rules or restrictions, he said.
Children do count in the rule of six in England, it was revealed last week, but Scotland does not count them.
Mr Hancock told MPs in the House of Commons today: “I’ve heard the concerns about the impact of local action on childcare arrangements. For many, informal childcare arrangements are a lifeline, without which they couldn’t do their jobs.
“So, today I’m able to announce a new exemption for looking after children under the age of 14 or vulnerable adults where that is necessary for caring purposes.
“This covers both formal and informal arrangements. It does not allow for play-dates or parties, but it does mean that a consistent childcare relationship that is vital for somebody to get to work is allowed.”
He added: “I hope this change will provide clarity and comfort to many people who are living with these local restrictions.”
