What is Public Liability Insurance?
Alongside a DBS check, a First aid certificate, training, and a health declaration form, it is a legal requirement for a childcare setting – childminders, nurseries, or after-school clubs- to have Public Liability Insurance. This cover protects the childcare provider from injury, damage, and accidents when working with children. Public liability insurance covers childcare providers across the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, N. Ireland)
Having Public Liability Insurance is not only a legal requirement, it also acts as peace of mind for both the childcare provider and parent. Public Liability Insurance covers claims made by a third party (eg. a parent) for accidents and/or damages whilst children are in the care of a childcare provider. For example, if a child were to get seriously hurt whilst in your care, and you are found responsible, you are able to make a claim to your insurance provider to cover the cost of damages.
Children are unpredictable, which is why it’s important to choose a reputable provider that provides good policy cover, with a large enough claim limit to ensure you are protected, as well as the children you take care of. To find out other documents required when registering to become a childminder, have a look at our A-Z Guide here.
What sort of things does Public liability insurance cover?
Before you start shopping around, it is a good idea to create a risk assessment of your childcare setting, to map out where potential danger could arise, and most importantly, how you plan to minimise this risk. A risk assessment could include:
- Travel
- Play equipment inside the house
- Play equipment outside
- Activities ie) cooking, crafts
- Outings
- Different rooms in the house
- Pets Sleeping areas
You can download our Risk Assessment Template here!
What should I be looking for in a Public liability policy?
The cheapest insurance cover may not always be the best. Make sure to read the terms and conditions with regard to claim limits and types of damage covered, particularly if you plan to provide extra services such as Forest School Activities or babysitting. For example, if your Public Liability Insurance does not cover accidents that involve outdoor excursions, you should not be taking the children you take care of on excursions.
Different Public Liability Insurance providers will cover different things, some may include assistants in their base price, whereas others may charge extra. Usually, a good Public Liability Insurance provider will range from £8-£10M+ of cover.
Some local authorities expect a minimum cover level, so before purchasing anything, check in with your LA.
What are other forms of insurance cover?
Often insurance providers will include other forms of cover in a package with PLI to minimise a loss of revenue, personal accident costs, and legal expenses.
Employers Liability Insurance (ELI): If you hire an assistant or childminder in your setting, you will need to take out ELI which will cover legal fees regarding injury or illness at your setting. If you pay your assistant more than £116 a week, you will need to provide their Employer Reference Number.
Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII): cover for legal expenses if a business is sued after a mistake leading to financial loss.
Where are some good places to look for insurance?
Morton and Michael offer insurance packages for £6.55 per month or £59.50 per year. PACEY also offers a competitive rate and you can call their helpline for more information on a quote.
At Yoopies, we know your childminding business is important to you. That’s why we are here every step of the way of your registration to ensure you are able to get your business up and running with ease. Once you have your business up and running, you are able to use the Yoopies for free to find your first clients simply and quickly. With our handy postcode tool, you’ll be able to easily get in touch with families in need of a childminder near you.