There are a range of specialist agencies and services which deal with childcare in the UK. BBC News Online has compiled a list of organisations that deal with a range of childcare issues, including some which provide practical support and advice for parents.

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites and can not guarantee the quality of service.

ChildcareLink:
Government project to provide information about childcare services throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Details of your local Children's information service and fact sheets on your childcare options.

; Telephone: 08000 96 02 96

Daycare Trust:
A national childcare charity which promotes affordable childcare for all. Free information and advice available from website or by calling the helpline.

; Telephone: call 020 7840 3350 , Monday - Friday 10am to 5pm.

Department for Education and Skills:
Government department which oversees childcare and early years education policy, including the National Childcare Strategy.

Inland Revenue:
Information on the Working Families Tax Credit, a state benefit paid to low-income families and offers help with childcare costs to eligible families.

; Telephone: 0845 609 5000 (0845 606 6668 for hard of hearing)

Kids' Clubs:
Provides information on out-of-school clubs around the UK and advice for parents.

; Telephone: 020 7512 2100; Email: information.office@kidsclubs.org.uk

National Childminding Association of England and Wales:
A charity and membership organisation for childminders, which provides information for childminders, parents, as well as information for local authorities and the general public.

National Day Nurseries Association:
A national childcare charity which promotes quality childcare and education for all children in the early years.

Ofsted:
Officially the Office of Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Schools in England. On 1 September 2001, OFSTED became responsible for the regulation of childminding and daycare in England.

; Telephone: 0845 601 4772 (complaints)

Pre-school Learning Alliance:
A national educational charity and umbrella body, linking 17,000 community-based pre-schools.

; E-mail: pla@pre-school.org.uk