CHILDMINDERS in County Durham can join a network that will give their services a guarantee of quality.

The Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership in County Durham is inviting people to join the Children Come First childminding networks.

The network, developed by the National Childminding Association and the Government, sets rigorous standards above those set by Ofsted.

To qualify, childminders are examined on their knowledge of childcare and the environment they care for children in is assessed. Once recruited to the network, they then receive visits from their network co-ordinator, where training needs can be identified.

For details of the network, call Margaret Clark on (01207) 291537. To locate the nearest childminder, call the Childcare Information Service on 0845 6024469.