SUPPORT is growing for a campaign to give new recognition to nannies.

Keighley MP Robbie Moore has voiced his backing for UK Nannies Matter.

The initiative is pressing for nannies to be recognised as professionals and for the industry to be properly regulated.

Mr Moore said: "Nannies provide a vital service for many working households across Keighley and Ilkley – and the nation as a whole.

"That is why it's important nannies receive the security and recognition they deserve by being properly regulated.

"Regulation is important to ensure the safety and protection of our children and for the nannies.

"It is not right that in 2020 we are allowing children to be supervised by an unregulated workforce. This would not be allowed to happen in schools or nurseries."

Among those leading the campaign locally is Silsden mum Maria Culley, a professional early years practitioner and qualified nanny who has worked across the sector for 15 years.

She said: "The lack of regulation, safeguarding and recognition for the nanny industry is shocking.

"There are more checks in a nursery setting when you work in a team and are not left on your own, than there are when you're a nanny working in sole charge in a private house.

"Children and nannies need to be protected within the private home. Many parents assume there are regulations that are mandatory – shockingly, this is not the case!"

The UK Nannies Matter campaign was founded in 2017 by Helen McCarthy.

She said: "Having worked in the industry for nearly 30 years I cannot believe that nannies are still classed as babysitters and not recognised by many as professionals.

"A child is the most previous thing a parent owns. Yet anyone can wake up and say 'I want to be a nanny', which is totally wrong.

"Children need to be safeguarded within their own home just as if they were in a nursery or childminder setting."

Another supporter of the effort is nanny Allie Bell.

"I am passionate to bring a change," she said.

"The industry desperately needs recognition, guidance and – most importantly – brought in line with the rest of the early years sector.

"Training and Continual Professional Development as well as minimum requirements will all raise the quality of early years professionals in home-based settings and create a consistent environment for raising and caring for children."