A support scheme has been launched in Hartlepool to support new childminders and ensure they do not leave the profession.

More experienced childminders are being recruited as buddies to steer starters through the initial stages of the job.

The scheme has been made possible by £62,500 of Government funding over the next two years.

Jeanette Dodd, childcare development worker with the Hartlepool Sure Start Partnership, said: "We know from experience that for a variety of reasons a lot of childminders leave the job within the first year of becoming registered.

"This scheme aims to ensure a wide range of advice and support is available to them, from help with their first Ofsted inspection to simply having a friend they feel comfortable discussing problems or concerns with.

"We currently have around 80 registered childminders in the town and they provide an important childcare service. We are looking to recruit more but it is also vital we retain our current workforce."

The buddy scheme is one aspect of support provided for childminders.

Another is a network of four groups across the town that enable childminders to socialise with each other and to share experiences.

Further information about the buddy scheme, the support group and childminding generally is available by contacting (01429) 284284.