After the Winkfield visit, it was on to Karyn Parker’s house in Hornsey. Karyn is a registered childminder in Haringey – and exemplar.

Three parents are there to meet with me (some who used Karyn for years past and present) and their children. Jo, Vera and Tracy are mums who without the peace of mind of knowing that their offspring are safe and sound – and more to the point – loved, would not be able to go to work as they do. I know that one only too well myself. It was clear that the children of mixed ages had a lovely environment, were stimulated and socialised and safe. As Jo said to me – you want a childminder who as much as possible does what you would do. And that’s the point.

Karyn is now mentoring other child minders. This is the real nuts and bolts of equality for me. Without good affordable childcare – women cannot get back to work. So I was really delighted to meet Karyn (who is absolutely wonderful) – and delighted to do so in support of National Childminding Week – which is why I was there!