Meet the childminder who made a big career switch to work with Oldham's littlest residents

When her second daughter arrived 12 years ago, Kerry Keenan walked away from managing a hectic Oldham call centre and re-trained as a childminder so she could be at home for both her own children and other local families. The swap has lasted, her service now cares for babies from four months up to 11-year-olds, and she says she has never regretted the move.

Working alongside friend Michelle Dixon, who joined six years ago after her own daughter became one of Kerry's first minded children, the pair offer full-day care and before-and-after-school sessions. Parents value the continuity: one girl minded from four months old is now heading to high school and still spends time at the setting, calling herself 'part of the team'.

Kerry's story is being used by Oldham Council's 'Do Something Big' campaign to attract more residents into early-years work. She argues the job fits family life, pays emotionally, and lets you watch children arrive at school ready to learn because you helped lay the groundwork.

Councillor Shaid Mushtaq says every extra childminder strengthens the town, because the earliest years shape confidence and curiosity. The council hopes other locals, whether returning to work or seeking a career change, will follow Kerry's lead.