What are the necessary legal documents and regulations for starting a childcare business in the UK?

To start a childcare business in the UK, you will need to prepare and register a variety of legal documents. Key requirements include:

• Registering your business name with Companies House.
• Obtaining Workers' compensation insurance and business insurance (e.g. public liability, professional indemnity).
• Securing Council approval (if operating from a commercial premise) and a lease agreement (if renting premises).
• Having Health and safety policies and procedures in place.
• Complying with privacy and data protection policies and procedures, in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
• Registering with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills) or a childminder agency and obtaining a service approval and accreditation.
• Meeting the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements for childcare services, including staff qualifications and ratios.