Introduction
Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) promotes childminding as a quality childcare service, through reaching our Vision and Key Priorities for childminding. 

Our Vision: “Quality childminding...building confident children within a family childcare experience” is the primary concept that the Association remains faithful to. The Key Priorities which continually act as the foundation when assessing and taking forward the work being done by SCMA, are as follows:

        Key Priority One: Raising the Profile of Childminding and the Work of the Association
        Key Priority Two: Improving the Quality of Childminding 
        Key Priority Three: Recruiting and Retaining Professional, Quality Childminders

Background
SCMA became an independent organisation in 1990, however the Association was first set up in 1985. The Association is a registered charity and also a Company Limited by Guarantee, whose Board of Directors are selected from Elected Members – most of whom are working childminders – representing the 32 local authorities in Scotland. It is through these Elected Members, volunteers, members and staff, that the Association strives to lead policy, provide information and training as to how the highest standards of childminding can be achieved.

Structure
SCMA national staff operate from our Head Office in Stirling; the Chief Executive and the Childminding Practice Development Team are based here. Head Office also houses two main departments: Strategic Services and Marketing Services. These departments serve SCMA members and provide support to our Childminding Development Officers. The Helpline (open Monday to Friday, 10 am – 4 pm, on 01786 449063) is operated by fully trained staff from Head Office.

Regional Network
SCMA staff and Childminding Development Officers operate throughout Scotland. These members of staff are available for support and information to develop childminding in each local authority area.