
We’re delighted to have been successful in securing funding through the Dormant Assets NI programme!
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NICMA – The Childminding Association would like to say a huge thank you to Dormant Assets NI and The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work and investing in the future of the childminding sector across Northern Ireland.
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This funding will provide NICMA with an important opportunity to further develop our work, strengthen our organisation and enhance the support we provide to Registered Childminders and Approved Home Childcarers.
We are incredibly grateful for this investment and for the confidence placed in NICMA to deliver this work. Funding such as this makes a real difference and helps us continue to develop services that benefit our members, children and families across Northern Ireland.
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Thank you to everyone involved in the Dormant Assets NI programme for making this opportunity possible.
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We look forward to sharing more about the project and the difference this funding will make in the months ahead!
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We’re absolutely delighted to have received Gold at AWARE NI’s Investors in Mental Health Awards 2026!
At NICMA – The Childminding Association, we are incredibly proud to have been recognised for our commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our members across Northern Ireland.
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Through our delivery of Mood Matters and Take 5 training, NICMA has been able to provide registered childminders and approved home childcarers with practical tools, knowledge and support to look after their own wellbeing, while also recognising the importance of positive mental health in the children and families they support every day.
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A huge thank you to AWARE NI for this wonderful recognition and for championing organisations that are making mental health and wellbeing a priority.
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Most importantly, thank you to all our Registered Childminders & Approved Home Childminders who took part in the training, shared their experiences and continue to create nurturing, supportive environments for children and families throughout Northern Ireland.
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This Gold Award is a fantastic achievement for NICMA and a reflection of the commitment of our staff, our members and everyone who believes that mental health and wellbeing matter.
Thank you, AWARE NI, for recognising the difference we are making together.
What's New

NICMA RESEARCH REPORT
NICMA RESEARCH REPORT
We were delighted to launch the new research report, "Understanding the Childcare Needs of Families with Children who have Disabilities or Additional Needs."
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This important study captures the experiences of over 450 parents and childcare providers, offering a powerful evidence base on the unique challenges these families face when accessing childcare.
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The findings highlight the urgent need for greater flexibility, accessibility, and tailored support within the sector. We’re proud to share a report that gives a voice to families and helps shape future policy and practice.
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