My neighbours are friends of mine and so is our ds, who go to the same school. Over the last few years I've helped them out with babysitting as they both work. I've been happy to do this as favours, they are always happy to help me if I need anything, as friends do.
They told me the other day they were going to interview a childminder to pick up their ds from school a couple of days a week, and some full days during the school hols. They told me they were thinking about asking me, but I think they were feeling a bit awkward about it. But we agreed, as I need the money and they need a childminder, it would actually be a perfect arrangement.
I told them, as they were friends, I would not charge them as much as their usual childminder (they have another regular childminder who does weekends and late evenings). They pay her £6ph, I said I would accept £4. They said no, they were happy to pay me the full rate. Anyway, the conversation ended but I went away and decided that I would offer to charge them £5 ph, all inclusive - meaning any extra costs for lunch, entry fees etc, I'd be happy to absorb. This is because they are friends, and I don't want to take the piss.
I looked after their ds from 12-6 today (inset day), took the kids to the farm. She handed me an envelope, said that there was change included for snacks, farm entry etc and rushed off. I was surprised to find £50 inside! £40 notes and £10 change. This works out to more than £6 per hour!
I was going to tell them that it was too much, but my friend reckons I should just keep it, and at most, hand over any change from the £10 for expenses (but spent about £10 on expenses anyway).
AIBU to keep the cash? I just feel that because we're friends, I shouldn't take it. On top of it all, the other childminder came and picked him up 20 mins early!