Nursery World Awards 2010: Individuals - Childminder of the Year

The 'amazing actions of an amazing person', over and above the duties of a childminder, are detailed in Helen's nomination.

'Helen is more than just an outstanding childminder to us,' says one parent. 'She is a lifeline, friend and above all a constant support to my children and me.' Helen not only cared for her children, but supported the mother when she was in an abusive relationship and helped her during the subsequent divorce.

Helen also cares for a child who has severe health needs. The child's mother says, 'I will always consider finding Helen's services to be the best thing that ever happened for us as a family.' Helen has supported them through having the child's condition diagnosed and even researched it herself. She helps to liaise with health professionals, responding quickly and efficiently to medical emergencies and accompanying mother and child to hospital, ensuring that they receive the best possible care. She has created a 'Family File' that contains the child's routines, medications and appointments, which has been praised by medical professionals for helping them to understand her health conditions.