Nannies

Nannies provide childcare in your own home and are a popular choice for many families.

They can look after children of any age and should provide plenty of fun and learning opportunities in a safe environment. Nannies can often work flexible hours and can be a suitable option if you work at times when other forms of childcare are not available.

Employing a nanny

Making sure your child is safe, well-cared for and happy is one of the most vital concerns for any parent.

Employing a nanny is an important responsibility. There are no legal requirements on a person applying to work as a nanny. It is up to you, as parent and employer, to make sure that you are employing a nanny who will look after your children well.

When looking at getting childcare from a nanny you should:

• decide whether a nanny is the right choice of childcare for your family
• plan your nanny’s job
• advertise the job vacancy
• choose potential nannies to interview
• plan and carry out interviews
• check your nanny before employment starts
• support your nanny in the job.

Although this guidance offers useful advice, it does not provide any guarantee that your choice of a nanny will produce a favourable outcome.

Remember, it is your responsibility as the employer to ensure that you are completely satisfied with the person that you employ.