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True StoriesMike Hatch: Registered "Child-Minder"
Mike is from Denbighshire in Wales, Great Britain, a former civil servant in the Metrological Office and schools lay inspector, was the only man on the course and admits to receiving some surprised glances from his fellow classmates. “Everyone on the course was very helpful. There was no ageism, “he said, “Now I am looking forward to the challenge. I am quite chuffed, bemused as to how I got there. “I’m helping to lead the grey evolution, “he joked.” Mike, who spent 21 years at sea on weather ships, decided to
become a registered childminder after his daughter gave birth to a baby boy fourteen
months ago. He takes up the story, “When my daughter got a job in “My experience as a young evacuee and being away when my own children were growing up, I think, acted as a catalyst to my solving her problem. “At her suggestion I became a registered childminder. With no idea as to what was involved I said yes to her suggestion and now four months later, and wise to what was involved, I am very pleased to become a registered childminder.” Mike looks after his grandson, also named Michael, 24 hours a day for five or six days. “Half the fun of this is it is a challenge, something new. It was daunting at first but now I have more confidence than when I started although I still get the panics, particularly when Michael had to have his MMR jab. He says his aim is to provide good quality childcare in a home environment for under fives, catering for parents or carers who find themselves needing occasional care while having to attend interviews, hospital and dental appointments. Debbie Read of the National Childminding Association, said of Mike’s achievement, “It’s unusual for a male to come into child minding, let alone 64 year-old grandfather. However, age isn’t a barrier. There is no upper age limit and we need more male childminders because with the number of single mums there is a great need for them.” Mike was able to follow his quest thanks to Prime Cymru, the Mid Wales based organisation that assists people of 50 years and over to go into business. He said, “I went to the job centre and asked if there was anyone who could help me in becoming self employed and they referred me to Prime. I know about the Prince’s Trust, but I had no idea there was an organisation for people my age.” “It gives you a bit of confidence to know that there is
someone who doesn’t think I am absolutely daft to pursue a new career at my time of
life.” Home | True
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