A service which puts parents in touch with one of the largest databases of child care providers in the country is about to be launched in Oxford as an independent charity.

The Oxfordshire Children's Information Service provides parents with information about registered childminders, nurseries and play schemes that are tailored to their needs.

Vivienne Fox, OCIS manager, said: "Lots of parents ring us who are returning to work after having their first baby.

"As a first-time parent, it can be quite daunting choosing what will work well for them and their child. If a parent lives in Kidlington, for example, but works in Oxford, we can provide them with lists of childminders and nurseries in both places and on their route into work.

"We have got information about nearly 4,000 child care providers in the county, which is one of the biggest lists in the country."

OCIS is one of the first 12 children's information services in the country to be awarded a National Quality Award, which ensures parents will receive information within three days of making an enquiry.

Most information leaflets are available in nine different languages and the service also employs an outreach worker to give advice to parents at toddler clubs and family centres.

The OCIS, which also has information about holiday play schemes and after-school clubs, was set up in 1995 by the Oxfordshire Play Association.

The service, which receives grants from Oxfordshire County Council and district councils, has now become an independent charity.

Mrs Fox said: "Although the OCIS has always been well used, one of the biggest criticisms in the past has been that people do not know about the service, which is free to parents.

"There are lots of people we need to work harder to reach and we are hoping to increase our funding as a charity through trusts and foundations."

For information, call 01993 886933 or e-mail enquiries@oxoncis.org.uk