Rotherham childminders offering free child care so mums can attend cervical screenings

Rebecca Mughal (39) who runs Safe and Sound Child Minding on Ramsden Road said she had seen a post about the idea on Facebook and decided to take it forward..

“A fellow childminder wrote about offering free childcare to a busy mum who’d not had chance to go to her appointment because of childcare issues,” Rebecca explained

“I let other Rotherham childminders know on social media I was going to do the same and got a lot of positive feedback.”

Now 48 registered day nurseries and childminders across Rotherham are joining others across the country to offer the one-hour childcare slot for free — and Rebecca hopes more will get on board as news of the initiative spreads.

Rebecca said she knew friends who have had cancer and sais she was horrified by the thought of a child being left without their mum.

“I know mums are busy looking after their children, work and other commitments — but this is one of the most important tests a woman should have,” Rebecca said.

“Every woman needs the opportunity to have the time to attend their cervical screening appointment.”

The scheme coincides with a multimedia campaign launched by Public Health England which aims to increase screening rates which have dropped to a 20-year low.

Figures published by NHS Digital in March 2018 showed the percentage of women aged 25 to 64 screened adequately was 71.4 per cent.

The NHS Cervical Screening Programme has made a significant impact on cervical cancer mortality since it was established in 1988, saving an estimated 5,000 lives a year.

Prof Anne Mackie, PHE director of screening, said The Be Clear on Cancer campaign played a vital role in raising awareness of cervical screening.

“It’s a real concern fewer women, particularly younger women, are taking screening up,” Prof Mackie added.

“We know for some women, worries about embarrassment or discomfort can put them off taking the test, but we hope the campaign will make it clearer to them about what the test involves so they can decide if it’s right for them.”

Cllr David Roche, Rotherham Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and social care, said the five minute test could save lives.

“We’re really pleased to hear about the support on offer from childcare providers in Rotherham, especially at a time when screening rates are so low,” Cllr Roche added.

To find your nearest childcare provider, call Rotherham Families Information Service on 0800 0730230 or email [email protected].