New guidance published on childcare registration exceptions
Welsh Government guidance is now available to help providers of childcare, play and activities understand the Child Minding and Day Care Exceptions (Revocation and Transitional Provision) (Wales) Order 2026.
The 2026 Order replaces the Child Minding and Day Care Exceptions (Wales) Order 2010. It sets out the circumstances where a person or provider does not need to register with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW), based on factors such as the type of provision, operating hours, the caregiver’s relationship to the child, where care takes place, and the age of the children involved.
The Order comes into force on 1 April 2027. There will then be a one-year transitional period, during which anyone who needs to register under the new rules can apply and prepare their provision to meet regulatory requirements.
Applications must be received by CIW by 31 March 2028. From 1 April 2028, the new exceptions become fully enforceable.
Who should read the guidance
The guidance is relevant to a wide range of providers, including childminders, nurseries, out-of-school clubs, holiday clubs, sports coaches, tutors, faith groups, youth organisations, and those offering care through nannying, au pair or babysitting arrangements.
Some providers who are currently exempt from registration may find their circumstances have changed under the new Order. Others may become newly exempt. The guidance sets out each exception in turn, with plain language explanations and worked examples to help providers work out whether it applies to them.
What providers should do
Providers are encouraged to read the guidance and consider what it may mean for their service, particularly if they currently rely on an exception under the 2010 Order.
Anyone unsure whether a particular service needs to register should get in touch with us.