Parents across the North East are facing a major childcare challenge as new lockdown-style restrictions only allow for "registered providers" to enter homes.
On Thursday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced a number of measures to help reduce the spread of coronavirus across the region.
From Friday, people will not be able to meet others who do not live with them or are not part of their support bubble, either indoors or outdoors.
There are some exceptions - other people will be able to come into your home under certain circumstances, such as to provide care to a vulnerable person or to provide emergency assistance.
And parents can also allow others in for the purpose of childcare "provided by a registered provider".
However informal childcare, such as that provided by grandparents or relatives, is not among the exemptions. This means families who rely on grandparents or other relatives for childcare while they go to work could face a major struggle.
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Local authorities in the North East did make a request for informal childcare arrangements to be excluded from the restrictions but this was rejected by the Government who insisted on formal childcare arrangements only.
Coun Nick Forbes, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “Initially, there will be challenges around childcare with only registered providers permitted into people’s homes.
"Rest assured, we will be working hard to make changes to allow the many residents who rely on the support of family members to continue with their own informal arrangements."
The Health Secretary has said he will consider the matter but also said he was worried about the prospect of passing coronavirus on to grandparents.
Meanwhile, parents can continue to use early years and childcare settings, including childminders and providers offering before or after school clubs or other out-of-school settings.
People can also continue to employ nannies, including those living outside of the region. And children of parents who are separated can continue to move between households.
